Rabat has been confirmed as host of the preliminary phase of the 2027 Women's World Cup Play-Off Tournament. Chinese Taipei, Ecuador, Ghana, Papua New Guinea, South Africa and Uzbekistan will compete in the Moroccan capital.
The event is scheduled for 28 November to 5 December 2026 at the Mohammed VI Football Complex during the international window. The venue is also hosting the 2026 Women's U-17 World Cup.
Nine matches and two progression places
Each of the six teams will play three matches, making nine fixtures in total. The teams finishing first and second overall will advance to the final phase of the play-off competition.
The opening matchday pairs Uzbekistan with Papua New Guinea, Chinese Taipei with South Africa, and Ghana with Ecuador. FIFA says the full match schedule and timings are available following the draw.
Progression from Rabat is distinct from qualification for the World Cup itself. The two successful teams will move to another stage rather than directly securing a place at Brazil 2027.
Final phase follows in February
The concluding play-off phase is scheduled for February 2027, continuing the contest for the remaining World Cup berths. Rabat therefore represents the immediate competitive hurdle for these six national teams.
Brazil 2027 will be the first Women's World Cup staged in South America. Confirming the Moroccan venue gives the preliminary participants a defined location and timetable as they prepare for the next step towards that tournament.
