WAFCON 2026: Nigeria eye 11th title, World Cup qualification and $2m prize
Nigeria's Super Falcons head into the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations carrying familiar expectations, but with even greater rewards awaiting this year's champions.
The tournament, which begins in Morocco, features an expanded 16-team format for the first time and offers the largest prize fund in the competition's history. Alongside continental glory, four automatic qualification places for the next FIFA Women's World Cup are available, while two additional nations will progress to intercontinental play-offs.
For Nigeria, the objective is clear: retain the trophy, qualify for another World Cup and further cement their dominance in African women's football.
Defending Champions remain the team to beat
No nation has enjoyed greater success in the Women's Africa Cup of Nations than Nigeria. The Super Falcons have lifted the continental title 10 times, including their dramatic comeback victory over hosts Morocco in the previous final, where they overturned a two-goal deficit to win 3-2.
That triumph reinforced Nigeria's remarkable record in the competition and established Justin Madugu's side as the benchmark once again heading into Morocco.
Bigger stakes than ever before
This edition introduces significant incentives beyond continental supremacy. The tournament winners will receive a record $2 million in prize money, reflecting the continued growth of women's football across Africa.
Equally important is qualification for the FIFA Women's World Cup, with the four semi-finalists earning automatic places while two quarter-final losers will battle for intercontinental play-off opportunities.
Madugu has repeatedly stressed that securing World Cup qualification remains Nigeria's immediate priority before attention shifts toward defending their African crown.
Experience meets emerging talent
Nigeria travel with a balanced squad blending experienced internationals and exciting younger players competing across Europe, Asia and North America.
Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Jennifer Echegini returns after scoring the winning goal in the previous final, while Canada's Esther Okoronkwo and China-based Folashade Ijamilusi provide further attacking quality.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade leads a squad that also includes highly rated goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, widely regarded among Africa's finest shot-stoppers. One notable absence is defender Ashleigh Plumptre, who misses the tournament through injury.
Group C presents immediate challenges
Nigeria begin their campaign against tournament debutants Malawi before facing two far more demanding opponents.
Zambia arrive with one of the continent's most dangerous attacking partnerships in Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, while Egypt continue to develop into a disciplined and organised side capable of causing problems for any opponent.
Although Nigeria remain favourites to progress, Group C offers little room for complacency.
Strong competition across the tournament
The expanded tournament features several realistic contenders beyond Nigeria. Hosts Morocco will once again hope home support can inspire a first continental title after consecutive final defeats.
South Africa remain dangerous after winning the championship in 2022, while Ghana and Cameroon possess the experience to challenge during the knockout rounds.
Cape Verde, one of the tournament newcomers, will also attract attention following the impressive rise of their men's national team on the global stage.
Another chapter in African dominance
Nigeria's ambitions extend beyond defending a trophy. An 11th WAFCON title would further widen the gap between the Super Falcons and every other African nation while strengthening preparations for another Women's World Cup campaign.
With increased financial rewards, expanded qualification opportunities and growing continental competition, WAFCON 2026 could prove one of the most significant tournaments in the history of African women's football. For Nigeria, however, the target remains unchanged: finish the tournament as champions once again.
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