Plumptre Disappointed With WAFCON Postponement

Plumptre Disappointed With WAFCON Postponement

Sampson Adedeji

Nigeria’s Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre has expressed disappointment over the postponement of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Al-Ittihad Ladies FC defender made the remarks during a video interview shared by Match of the Day on BBC, following confirmation from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) that the tournament had been moved from its original dates of March 17 to April 3 in Morocco to July 25 to August 16, 2026.

Plumptre said the decision would be unlikely to occur in other major football competitions, particularly in the men’s game.

“It just wouldn’t happen for other tournaments in women’s football, and especially in men’s football. Last WAFCON wasn’t less important than this one just because it wasn’t qualification for a World Cup,” she said.

The former Leicester City Women FC defender also highlighted the significance of the upcoming edition, which will feature an expanded format.

“This is the first time it’s the edition where there are 16 teams, all of which are going to want to be able to go and qualify for the World Cup. And this is a big deal for many teams,” Plumptre added.

According to her, the tournament will also provide opportunities for several nations making their debut appearance.

“Many of them haven’t even been in the AFCON before, never mind had the chance to qualify for a World Cup. It also helps them financially as well,” she said.