The biggest Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) is about to kick off. Sixteen of Africa’s top national teams are gathering in Morocco for the 2026 tournament.
From July 26 to August 16, this event is not just about who is the best in Africa. It also serves as a chance to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. Every match matters a lot.
For Nigeria’s Super Falcons, the goal is clear: keep their title and secure their 11th continental victory. The other 15 teams see this as a chance to make history.
A bigger tournament, bigger stakes
This edition of WAFCON is the 14th and marks a new phase as CAF has expanded the tournament from 12 to 16 teams for the first time.
The teams are split into four groups of four. The top two from each group will move on to the quarter-finals.
Morocco is hosting the tournament for the third time in a row. The country has become a key player in African women’s football.
Nigeria enters as the defending champion and the most successful nation in WAFCON history. South Africa is the only other former champion in the mix this year. Two teams, Malawi and Cape Verde, will play in WAFCON for the first time, adding interesting new stories to the tournament.
Stadiums ready for Africa’s biggest Women’s Football festival
The championship will take place in Rabat and Casablanca.
In Rabat, matches will be held at Moulay El Hassan Stadium, Rabat Olympic Stadium, and Al Medina Stadium. Casablanca will feature games at Moulay Rachid Stadium and Larbi Zaouli Stadium.
Group C: Super Falcons target historic 11th Crown
No team is more respected in African women’s football than Nigeria.
The Super Falcons have won 10 WAFCON titles and have reached the semi-finals in every tournament since it started in 1998. They reclaimed their title by beating hosts Morocco in the exciting 2024 final.
Winning again in Morocco would strengthen Nigeria’s claim as Africa’s top team.
Zambia
Zambia, known as the Copper Queens, are getting closer to Africa’s top teams.
They finished third in 2022 and reached the quarter-finals in 2024. Zambia has one of Africa’s strongest attacking teams and believes their first title is within reach.
Egypt
Egypt is back after being away for a decade.
They did not get past the group stage in 1998 and 2016. This time, the Pharaohs aim to reach the knockout rounds and make history.
Malawi
Malawi’s Scorchers are making their first WAFCON appearance.
Led by sisters Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga, their bold attacking play could surprise many.
Brazil 2027 Qualification raises the stakes
The tournament is not just about winning in Africa; it is also a path to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
The four teams that win in the quarter-finals will qualify automatically. The four losing teams will enter play-offs, with two getting a chance in the FIFA Inter-Confederation Play-Off Tournament.
So, reaching the quarter-finals keeps every nation in the running for a World Cup spot.
Record Prize Money on offer
CAF has raised the prize money for this tournament.
The champions will take home $2 million, which is double the $1 million from the last edition. The total prize pool has increased by 67 percent, going from $3.475 million to a record $5.8 million.
Stars ready to light up Morocco
The tournament will feature some of the biggest names in African women’s football.
Asisat Oshoala (Nigeria) is the face of the Super Falcons. The six-time African Women’s Player of the Year continues to lead with her experience and winning spirit.
Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco) is the reigning CAF Women’s Player of the Year. The Moroccan captain and Golden Boot winner carries the hopes of the host nation.
Rasheedat Ajibade (Nigeria) is one of Africa’s most skilled players. Known as the “Girl with the Blue Hair,” she is a key player for the Super Falcons.
Esther Okoronkwo (Nigeria) is full of confidence after her impressive last tournament, where she scored two goals and had six assists.
Thembi Kgatlana (South Africa) is back after missing the last edition. The 2018 Golden Boot winner is vital to Banyana Banyana’s title hopes.
Barbra Banda (Zambia) is seen as one of the best strikers in the world. She is quick and a great finisher, leading Zambia’s quest for their first title.
Tabitha Chawinga (Malawi) brings power to the tournament debutants. She has made a name for herself in Europe and can challenge any defence.
Gabrielle Aboudi Onguéné (Cameroon) continues to inspire the Indomitable Lionesses, bringing years of experience and determination.
Chloé N’Gazi (Algeria) was one of the top goalkeepers last time and will again be key to Algeria’s strong defence.
Everything to Play For
With record prize money, a larger format, World Cup qualification on the line, and top players ready to compete, WAFCON 2026 is set to be one of the toughest tournaments yet.
For Nigeria, it is a chance to add to their unmatched legacy with an 11th title. For Morocco, South Africa, Zambia, and others, it is time to start a new chapter.
Over the next three weeks, Africa’s best will fight for both continental glory and a ticket to Brazil 2027. Every match will matter for the future of women’s football on the continent.
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