The 13th edition of the Women’s AFCON kicks off tomorrow, the 5th of July 2025, as hosts Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses take on the Copper Queens of Zambia at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat. The opening game is scheduled for 9 p.m. WAT.
The Women’s AFCON has come a long way since its inception in 1991 when it was known as the African Women’s Championship. The competition took place in 1991, running from February 16 to June 30. It followed a home-and-away (knockout) format rather than a hosted tournament. Only six matches were played due to the withdrawal of four teams. In the final, Nigeria defeated Cameroon to become the inaugural champions and have since gone on to win a staggering 11 AFCON titles out of 12 editions, in 1991, 1995, 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2016, and 2018.
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Although the team’s aura of invincibility has faded in recent years, they remain the top-ranked side in Africa. However, teams like South Africa, the current champions, and hosts Morocco, with home support, are well placed to clinch the title. Still, no one would write off the Super Falcons, who have shown reeking dominance whenever the AFCON is on display.
With the appointment of Justin Madugu as interim coach, the recall of legendary striker Asisat Oshoala, their historical record in the competition, and a mouth-watering $1,000,000 USD as the ultimate prize, the Super Falcons of Nigeria are surely motivated to go all the way and lift the trophy for a record 12th time.
On Sunday, the Super Falcons of Nigeria will take on Tunisia’s Eagles of Carthage at 5 p.m. WAT at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. They will then face Algeria and Botswana, going into the group stage as favorites to win the group.
