The countdown is almost over as the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) will kick off in Morocco on Sunday, 26th July, bringing together the continent’s best national teams for one of the biggest tournaments in African football. Over the next three weeks, 16 countries will battle not only for continental glory but also for coveted places at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
For Nigeria, the mission is clear. The Super Falcons return as defending champions and will be aiming to win a record-extending 11th WAFCON title. With established stars, exciting young talents and stronger competition than ever before, this year’s tournament promises plenty of memorable moments.
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A Bigger Tournament With Bigger Stakes
This edition marks a new chapter for WAFCON after the Confederation of African Football expanded the competition from 12 to 16 teams. The larger format gives more nations the opportunity to compete on Africa’s biggest women’s football stage while raising the overall level of competition.
The tournament will run from July 26 to August 16 across five stadiums in Rabat and Casablanca, Morocco. Teams are divided into four groups, with the top two in each group progressing to the quarter-finals before the knockout rounds begin.
Beyond lifting the trophy, there is even more at stake this year. The four semi-finalists will automatically qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, while additional playoff opportunities remain available for other top-performing teams. CAF has also increased the winners’ prize money to a record $2 million, reflecting the growing investment in women’s football across the continent.
Super Falcons Lead a Competitive Field
Nigeria remains the benchmark in African women’s football after winning the competition 10 times. Head coach Justine Madugu has assembled a balanced squad featuring experienced internationals alongside emerging stars as the Super Falcons look to defend their crown.
Nigeria have been drawn in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and tournament debutants Malawi. Zambia are expected to provide one of the toughest tests after establishing themselves as one of Africa’s fastest-rising teams, while Egypt and Malawi will also be eager to cause upsets.
Elsewhere, hosts Morocco will hope home support can finally help them lift their first WAFCON title after finishing runners-up in the previous two editions. South Africa, champions in 2022, and Ghana, who impressed during qualifying, are also considered strong contenders for the trophy.
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Players and Storylines to Watch
The tournament will showcase some of the biggest names in women’s football. Nigeria captain Rasheedat Ajibade returns after winning the Player of the Tournament award at the last edition, while six-time African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala brings valuable experience to the Super Falcons.
Zambia’s attacking duo of Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji will be among the tournament’s biggest attractions after excelling in the United States’ National Women’s Soccer League. Malawi’s Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga are also expected to light up the competition, while Morocco captain Ghizlane Chebbak will be looking to inspire the hosts on home soil.
With increased prize money, World Cup qualification places and several of Africa’s biggest football stars competing, WAFCON 2026 is set to be one of the most competitive editions in the tournament’s history.
African women’s football continues to reach new heights, and WAFCON 2026 promises unforgettable action from start to finish. Which team do you think will lift the trophy, and can the Super Falcons successfully defend their title?
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