The 13th edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) kicks off on July 5 in Morocco, and all signs point to one of the most exciting tournaments in the competition’s history.
The host nation, Morocco, is aiming to settle unfinished business after narrowly losing the 2022 final on home soil. Meanwhile, defending champions South Africa are returning with renewed ambition, while Nigeria’s Super Falcons—nine-time champions—are determined to reclaim their throne. Around these traditional powerhouses, a host of seasoned and hungry teams are poised to shake the status quo.
This year’s WAFCON features no debutants—every team in the lineup has experience on the continental stage, and each arrives with bold aspirations and a matured game plan.
South Africa: Defending the Crown
Two years ago in Rabat, South Africa’s Banyana Banyana broke a nearly 20-year drought by clinching their first WAFCON title, after having finished as runners-up four times. It was a moment of national pride, earned through unity and tactical discipline.
Coach Desiree Ellis has since become a national icon. Star players like Hildah Magaia, Jermaine Seoposenwe, and goalkeeper Andile Dlamini earned praise for their performances. But returning as champions comes with its own burden—every opponent will be gunning for them. With a slightly reshuffled squad blending veteran leadership with emerging talent, South Africa must brace for a closely watched campaign where any weakness could be their undoing.
Morocco: Redemption on Home Soil
Morocco made history in 2022 by becoming the first North African team to reach a WAFCON final. Led by Ghizlane Chebbak—voted the tournament’s best player—the Atlas Lionesses wowed fans with their attacking flair and poise under pressure. Crowds at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium swelled, peaking at 50,000 during the final.
Now, under the guidance of Jorge Vilda—who coached Spain to the 2023 World Cup title—Morocco is going all out for the championship. With a professionalized league, strong club representation in continental competitions, and rising stars joining the squad, expectations are sky-high. Simply reaching the final again won’t be enough this time—the title is the goal.
Nigeria: On a Redemption Mission
Nigeria’s Super Falcons are out to reclaim their dominance. After a shaky group stage in 2022 and a dramatic semi-final exit against Morocco on penalties (1-1, 5-4), the nine-time champions left the tournament with bruised pride. WAFCON 2024 offers them a fresh shot at glory.
With Justin Madugu at the helm, the squad is anchored by reliable names like goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, midfielders Rasheedat Ajibade and Toni Payne, and prolific striker Asisat Oshoala. Armed with tradition, talent, and experience, Nigeria is ready to reassert its supremacy on the continent.
Rising Competition: No Underdogs Left
For the first time in WAFCON history, all participating teams are returnees—no debutants, no unknowns. Every nation arrives with a plan, experience, and a serious chance to make history.
DR Congo returns after a 13-year absence, featuring a youthful, energetic squad led by Merveille Kanjinga.
Zambia, semi-finalists in 2022 and World Cup contenders, are riding a wave of momentum with standout forward Barbra Banda.
Botswana, the breakout team of the last edition, returns with growing maturity and strong leadership from Alex Malete.
Senegal aims to push beyond the group stage, targeting a quarter-final spot after consecutive qualifications.
Tunisia, who impressed during qualifiers, dream of reaching their first-ever semi-final.
Algeria and Mali, traditional football nations, are back stronger, better resourced, and more ambitious.
Ghana, absent in 2022, is on a mission to rejoin the continent’s elite.
Tanzania, representing CECAFA, has shown they’re no longer intimidated by any opponent.
A New Era of Women’s Football in Africa
With no novices and no clear favourites, WAFCON 2024 is set to be a battle of equals—driven by history, pride, and an evolving football landscape. Morocco promises a stunning backdrop, and Africa’s finest women footballers are ready to deliver drama, passion, and unforgettable moments.
