WAFCON 2026: We do not owe team per diems – Sports Ministry denies Black Queens claims

The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has dismissed allegations from members of the Black Queens that the government owes the team unpaid per diems during their participation in the Women's African Football Championship 2026 (WAFCON) in Morocco.

In a statement released on August 12, 2026, the Ministry affirmed that all approved allowances the players and eligible officials were entitled to had been paid. These payments were made in advance, covering the dates from July 26 to August 7. Following the team's elimination in the quarter-finals, an additional payment was made on August 11, covering the period from August 8 to 14.

The Ministry clarified that the Black Queens earned a bonus for their victory over Cape Verde in the group stage of WAFCON. This payment is currently being processed through established financial procedures. The Ministry also rejected claims of an outstanding WAFCON qualification bonus, asserting that their current sports financing framework does not include a separate bonus for teams qualifying through the home-and-away round.

Concerns about outstanding financial obligations, welfare, and the support provided to the team during their WAFCON campaign were raised by the Black Queens. The Ministry responded by stating that the team has a comprehensive support system, including medical, nutritional, administrative, and technical personnel. They emphasized that legitimate additional welfare needs are being addressed.

With the Black Queens set to face Côte d'Ivoire in a decisive match for their FIFA Women's World Cup play-in qualification, the Ministry urged all parties to concentrate on supporting the team's qualification bid. The Ministry emphasized that they remain fully committed to the Black Queens' success.