South Africa in pole position to host major tournament in 2025

Published on by Nkosiyabuya Sithole

South Africa has emerged as a leading contender to host the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after Morocco withdrew as the original host.

Originally scheduled for June-July this year, the tournament was postponed to 2025 due to a clash with the Paris Olympics.

Morocco, on the other hand, will have to host the 2025 men’s AFCON in December next year. They have decided against staging WAFCON as they can’t host two major tournaments within six months.

According to SABC Sport, SAFA president Danny Jordaan confirmed that they have engaged the South African government about their intentions. They have also submitted a bid to CAF.

The report added while there other countries who have expressed their interest in hosting the tournament, SA are in pole position to be awarded the hosting rights.

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“Well, we have submitted to CAF our intention for the next WAFCON, of course that WAFCON was awarded to Morocco,” Jordaan told SABC Sport.

“CAF must now respond to us, if they say yes – it will give us the opportunity to defend our title at home, and it is a huge opportunity for Banyana.”

South Africa last served as the host for the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in 2010, during which the Banyana Banyana achieved a commendable third-place finish, while Nigeria emerged as the tournament champions.

Under the leadership of Desiree Ellis, the team triumphed in the most recent edition held in Morocco in 2022. To successfully defend their title, it is essential for them to secure the opportunity to host the upcoming tournament, thereby garnering substantial support.

“We also have to try and renew the Banyana team, and have them play friendly matches against big federations in world football, and I guess now it is up to CAF to give us a response,” added Jordaan.

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Nkosiyabuya Sithole

Nkosiyabuya Sithole, a young and rising sports journalist based in Durban, South Africa, harbors a deep passion for football. Nevertheless, he aspires to become a well-rounded journalist, adept in various areas of the field.

Nkosi's career began in 2020, working as a home-based writer during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has since written for various websites, including Briefly News, FiND-iT News, and The South African. Attending live sporting events is a particular pleasure for him, as they provide opportunities for interaction with sports personalities.

Outside of the office, he's a God-fearing and affable young man.