Nigeria target WAFCON title defence and World Cup qualification
the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) begins in Morocco on Sunday, with 16 teams competing for continental glory, qualification for the FIFA Women's World Cup, and a record prize of $2 million for the champions.
Defending champions Nigeria enter the tournament as favourites after winning their 10th continental title in dramatic fashion by overturning a two-goal deficit to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 in the previous final.
Several key players from that triumph return, including Jennifer Echegini, Esther Okoronkwo and Folashade Ijamilusi, who are expected to play major roles as the Super Falcons pursue another championship.
Head coach Justine Madugu said the team's immediate objective is to reach the semi-finals, which guarantees one of Africa's four automatic qualification places for the next FIFA Women's World Cup.
He added that defending the WAFCON title remains the squad's ultimate ambition despite increased competition from other African nations.
Nigeria's 25-player squad blends experienced internationals with emerging talents drawn from clubs across Europe, Asia and North America. Goalkeeper Fatima Oloko is the only home-based player in the squad, while Rasheedat Ajibade will captain the team. Brighton goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie is also expected to play a key role after establishing herself as one of Africa's leading goalkeepers.
The Super Falcons will compete in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and tournament debutants Malawi. Zambia are considered Nigeria's biggest group-stage challenge, with star forwards Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji expected to lead their attack. Malawi will rely on sisters Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga as they make their first appearance at the tournament.
Hosts Morocco headline Group A with Algeria, Senegal and Kenya, while reigning African champions South Africa begin their campaign in Group B against Côte d'Ivoire, Tanzania and Burkina Faso. Group D features Ghana, Cameroon, and newcomers Cape Verde.
The expanded tournament will be played across five stadiums in Rabat and Casablanca, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the quarter-finals. Two additional play-off matches between the losing quarter-finalists will determine Africa's representatives in the intercontinental World Cup qualification play-offs.
With increased prize money and World Cup qualification at stake, this year's WAFCON is expected to be one of the most competitive editions in the tournament's history.
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