16 Countries Competing for WAFCON 2026 Glory

As the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco, 16 teams are ready to fight for the title and spots at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

The rankings released on Friday by ESPN Africa looked at each team's chances ahead of the tournament in Morocco. The finalists will also earn places at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Here’s how the teams rank from strongest title contenders to the least likely to win:

1. Nigeria 🇳🇬
The Super Falcons are still the team to beat. As defending champions and record 10-time winners, Nigeria has a strong squad, a winning mentality and great experience. Anything less than an 11th title would be seen as a letdown.

2. Morocco 🇲🇦
Playing at home for the third straight WAFCON, Morocco has skill, momentum and strong local support. Led by African Women’s Footballer of the Year Ghizlane Chebbak, the hosts are expected to make a serious push for the title.

3. South Africa 🇿🇦
Banyana Banyana remain among Africa’s best teams with a balanced squad and experienced coach Desiree Ellis. The return of Thembi Kgatlana adds strength to a team that can go far in the tournament.

4. Ghana 🇬🇭
The Black Queens have found their form again under Kim Bjorkegren. A mix of seasoned players and exciting young talents makes Ghana one of the strongest teams in the tournament.

5. Zambia 🇿🇲
With stars like Barbra Banda and Rachael Kundananji, Zambia has one of the most dangerous attacks in Africa. While there are defensive concerns, they have the quality to make a deep run.

6. Senegal 🇸🇳
Senegal showed promise in the last tournament and remain tough opponents. Their experienced squad and direct style could challenge any team in Morocco.

7. Algeria 🇩🇿
Algeria keeps getting better under Farid Benstiti. Their strong defense and tactical organization make them one of the dark horses in this tournament.

8. Cameroon 🇨🇲
Though not as dominant as before, the Indomitable Lionesses are still competitive and have the experience to surprise stronger teams.

9. Ivory Coast 🇨🇮
Back at WAFCON after 12 years, Ivory Coast comes in with confidence, athleticism and attacking skills. They could be one of the surprise teams of the tournament.

10. Mali 🇲🇱
Even with a rough recent record, Mali has enough individual talent and players from Europe to aim for a knockout stage spot.

11. Egypt 🇪🇬
Back at WAFCON after ten years, Egypt is still rebuilding but has shown improvement. Getting past the group stage would be a positive outcome.

12. Burkina Faso 🇧🇫
Burkina Faso qualified comfortably and has become a well-organized team. But they might struggle against the top teams in Africa.

13. Cape Verde 🇨🇻
Making their tournament debut, Cape Verde has already surprised many by qualifying. Their attacking style could lead to some unexpected moments, despite their lack of experience.

14. Tanzania 🇹🇿
Tanzania is disciplined and hard to break down but lacks the star power to compete consistently with the tournament's heavyweights.

15. Malawi 🇲🇼
The Chawinga sisters give Malawi a real attacking threat, but as newcomers, they face a tough group and lack depth in their squad.

16. Kenya 🇰🇪
Back at WAFCON after a ten-year break, Kenya’s participation is a big achievement. But their limited experience at this level makes them the biggest underdogs in the tournament.