Nigeria’s Super Falcons will begin their quest for a record-extending 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title as the 2026 tournament kicks off in Morocco, with continental glory and qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil at stake.
The championship, scheduled to run from July 26 to August 16, is expected to be the biggest edition in the competition’s history following its expansion from 12 to 16 teams.
As defending champions and the most successful team in the history of African women’s football, the Super Falcons enter the tournament as one of the favourites.
Nigeria has won 10 WAFCON titles and has reached at least the semi-finals of every edition since the competition’s official launch in 1998. Another triumph would further cement the country’s dominance on the continent.
Nigeria has been drawn in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and tournament debutants Malawi.
While the Super Falcons boast vast experience, they are expected to face stiff competition, particularly from Zambia’s Copper Queens, who have emerged as one of Africa’s strongest women’s teams in recent years.
Beyond lifting the trophy, qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup adds greater significance to the tournament.
The four quarter-final winners will qualify automatically for the global showpiece in Brazil, while the losing quarter-finalists will have another opportunity through the FIFA Inter-Confederation Play-Off Tournament.
Head coach Justin Madugu will rely on a blend of experienced stars and emerging talents, including captain Rasheedat Ajibade, six-time African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala and in-form forward Esther Okoronkwo.
Their experience is expected to be crucial as Nigeria seeks to defend its continental crown.
CAF has also significantly increased the tournament’s financial rewards.
The champions will receive $2 million, double the previous prize, while the total prize pool has risen to a record $5.8 million, reflecting the governing body’s growing investment in women’s football across Africa.
With a larger tournament, record prize money and a World Cup ticket on the line, expectations are high for the Super Falcons.
Nigeria will be aiming to reaffirm its status as Africa’s leading women’s football nation by capturing an unprecedented 11th WAFCON title while securing another appearance on the global stage.
