Everything you need to know about WAFCON 2026

The countdown is over as the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) gets underway in Morocco, bringing together the continent's strongest national teams for one of the most competitive editions in the tournament's history.

Originally postponed earlier in the year, the championship now features an expanded 16-team field, increased prize money, and perhaps its biggest incentive yet, qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.

With continental giants Nigeria seeking another title and ambitious challengers eager to rewrite history, the tournament promises nearly three weeks of elite women's football.

Why WAFCON 2026 matters

Beyond lifting Africa's most prestigious women's football trophy, teams are competing for:

• Four automatic places at the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.
• Two opportunities to reach the intercontinental World Cup playoffs.
• A record-breaking $2 million winner's prize.
• Valuable FIFA ranking points.
• Continental prestige.

CAF has significantly increased financial rewards, reflecting the continued growth of women's football across Africa.

WAFCON 2026 Groups

Group A

• Morocco
• Algeria
• Senegal
• Kenya

Group B

• South Africa
• Ivory Coast
• Burkina Faso
• Tanzania

Group C

• Nigeria
• Zambia
• Egypt
• Malawi

Group D

• Ghana
• Cameroon
• Mali
• Cape Verde

The top two teams from each group advance to the quarter-finals.

Nigeria chasing historic 11th title

The Super Falcons enter the tournament as defending champions and overwhelming favourites. Nigeria remains the most successful nation in WAFCON history, having won 10 titles, and arrives with another balanced squad featuring experienced internationals and emerging stars.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade will lead a squad that includes:

• Chiamaka Nnadozie
• Jennifer Echegini
• Esther Okoronkwo
• Folashade Ijamilusi
• Toni Payne
• Michelle Alozie

Head coach Justin Madugu has made it clear that Nigeria's first objective is securing qualification for the 2027 Women's World Cup before focusing on defending the continental crown.

Teams capable of challenging Nigeria

Morocco

Playing at home once again, Morocco hopes to finally lift the trophy after finishing runners-up in the previous two editions. Spanish coach Jorge Vilda brings World Cup-winning experience, while home support could provide another significant advantage.

South Africa

The 2022 champions remain among Africa's strongest sides under long-serving coach Desiree Ellis. Their tactical discipline and tournament experience make them genuine contenders.

Zambia

Led by superstar forwards Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, Zambia arguably possesses the continent's most dangerous attacking partnership. Their physical style and pace make them capable of troubling any defence.

Ghana

The Black Queens return with renewed optimism after recent improvements and could emerge as one of the tournament's surprise packages.

Stadiums hosting WAFCON 2026

Matches will be played across five stadiums:

• Moulay Hassan Stadium (Rabat)
• Olympic Stadium (Rabat)
• Al Madina Stadium (Rabat)
• Larbi Zaouli Stadium (Casablanca)
• Moulay Rachid Stadium (Casablanca)

Morocco continues to invest heavily in sporting infrastructure ahead of co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Key Tournament Dates

• Opening Match: July 26
• Group Stage: July 26 – August 6
• Quarter-finals: August 8–9
• Semi-finals: August 12
• Third-place Match: August 15
• Final: August 16

Nigeria's Group Stage Fixtures

Nigeria vs Malawi

July 28

The Super Falcons begin against tournament debutants Malawi, who boast one of Africa's most dangerous forwards in Temwa Chawinga.

Nigeria vs Zambia

August 1

Likely the biggest match in Group C as two title contenders meet.

Nigeria vs Egypt

August 5

Nigeria conclude the group phase against an improving Egyptian side hoping to reach the knockout rounds.

Record Prize Money

CAF has doubled the champions' prize to $2 million, while the overall prize pool now stands at $5.8 million.

Prize highlights include:

• Champions: $2,000,000
• Runners-up: $750,000
• Every participating team: $150,000

The financial increase represents another major milestone for women's football on the continent.

Can anyone stop the Super Falcons?

Nigeria begins the competition as the team every nation wants to beat. However, home advantage for Morocco, South Africa's experience, Zambia's explosive attack, and several ambitious emerging nations suggest this could be one of the most unpredictable editions of WAFCON.

With World Cup qualification, continental glory, and record prize money all at stake, WAFCON 2026 promises to deliver another landmark chapter in African women's football.

SportsLigue