The 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco is set to be a highly anticipated tournament, featuring powerhouse teams with distinct ambitions. Nigeria’s Super Falcons, nine-time champions, and Ghana’s Black Queens, making a significant return, are among the prominent teams arriving with high expectations.

Nigeria’s Super Falcons, led by head coach Justine Madugu, arrived in Casablanca, Morocco, from Lisbon, Portugal, on Wednesday night. The delegation, comprising 22 players and officials, was joined by China-based forward Folashade Ijamilusi and USA-based Asisat Oshoala, who had arrived earlier. The Falcons are in high spirits following a hard-fought goalless draw against Portugal in a friendly match played at Estádio José Gomes in Lisbon. Key players like goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defender Shukurat Oladipo, and veteran forward Francisca Ordega impressed during the friendly encounter.

The Super Falcons are on a determined mission to secure a record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title, aiming to reclaim their dominance in African women’s football. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, set for her third WAFCON appearance, reiterated the team’s focus on this objective, stating, “We are focused on mission X. For us, effort is everything.” This quest for redemption comes after a disappointing outing in the previous edition in 2022, where they were dethroned by South Africa’s Banyana Banyana, marking the first time Nigeria failed to win the title since the tournament began. Nigeria will open their WAFCON campaign against Tunisia on Sunday, July 6, at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, followed by group stage matches against Botswana and Algeria.

Historically, the Super Falcons have an unparalleled record in the tournament, having reached at least the semi-final stage in every edition since its inception as the African Women Championship in 1998. Their nine titles were won in 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2016, and 2018, with semi-final appearances in 2008, 2012, and 2022.

Meanwhile, Ghana’s Black Queens are making a highly anticipated return to WAFCON 2024, marking their first appearance since hosting the tournament in 2018 after missing the last two editions. Deputy captain Jennifer Cudjoe conveyed the team's profound pride and excitement about their return, emphasizing their determination to demonstrate Ghana's resurgence on the continental stage. Cudjoe, an American-based midfielder who played a pivotal role in their qualification campaign under former coach Nora Häuptle, acknowledges the tough competition ahead. She specifically pointed to consistent teams like South Africa but expressed confidence in the Black Queens' preparedness, stating, “This edition will be a different kind of challenge, but we’re prepared for our tough opponents.” Cudjoe further emphasized the team’s commitment to giving their best and reminding the world that “Ghana is back — and here to stay!” Ghana’s WAFCON campaign is set to kick off on July 5.