WAFCON 2026: Nigeria set for title defence against Malawi

Nigeria’s Super Falcons will begin the defence of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title against Malawi on Sunday in Morocco as they chase a record 11th continental crown.

The tournament, which was originally planned for March, will take place from July 26 to August 16, with 16 countries competing for the title.

The defending champions have been drawn in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and Malawi. Nigeria will face Malawi in their opening match on July 27, before playing Zambia on July 31 and Egypt on August 4.

Head coach Justin Madugu has selected a squad that combines experienced players with rising stars. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, and forwards Asisat Oshoala, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Esther Okoronkwo and Folashade Ijamilusi are expected to play key roles.

Zambia are seen as Nigeria’s toughest opponents in the group, with star players Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji leading their attack. Nigeria defeated Zambia 5-0 in the quarter-finals of the last WAFCON.

Egypt return to the competition after missing the previous edition, while Malawi will be making their first appearance in the expanded tournament.

Madugu said his team remains focused despite Nigeria’s strong history in the competition.

“We know every team now believes they can challenge Nigeria. We have to earn every victory through discipline, hard work and consistency,” he said.

The tournament will also help determine Africa’s representatives at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The four semi-finalists will qualify automatically, while the teams that lose in the quarter-finals will compete for two places in the intercontinental playoffs.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has increased the prize money for this edition. The champions will receive two million dollars, while the total prize fund has risen to 5.8 million dollars. Every participating country will also receive 150,000 dollars.

Host nation Morocco, runners-up in the last edition, are among the favourites to win the title. South Africa, champions in 2022, and Ghana, who return after missing the previous tournament, are also expected to challenge.

Matches will be played across five stadiums in Rabat and Casablanca. The top two teams from each of the four groups will qualify for the quarter-finals, with the knockout stage beginning on August 8.

Nigeria have won 10 of the 13 WAFCON tournaments since the competition started in 1998 and will be aiming to extend that remarkable record in Morocco.