The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco is set to deliver an unprecedented level of competition as CAF officially expands the tournament from 12 to 16 teams. This historic move opens the door for emerging nations like Cameroon, Egypt, Ivory Coast, and Mali previously missing out to compete alongside established powerhouses including Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, and Zambia.

For Nigeria’s Super Falcons, the expansion heightens the challenge as they aim for a record-extending 11th WAFCON title. Forward Esther Okoronkwo, a standout performer in the qualifiers with a goal and an assist against Benin Republic, expressed the team’s determination:

“We’re not going there to not want to win… We want to win the 11th for sure.”

The tournament also carries significant stakes as a qualifying pathway to the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil, intensifying the level of competition. Nigeria’s impressive legacy, 10 titles from 13 tournaments and qualification for every Women’s World Cup positions them as favorites, yet the inclusion of more competitive sides could make this edition the most fiercely contested WAFCON in history.

CAF’s expansion underscores its commitment to developing women’s football across Africa, giving more nations valuable exposure to elite-level play. With Morocco hosting once again, teams are preparing to leave everything on the pitch, promising fans a tournament brimming with skill, intensity, and continental pride.