The 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON 2026) is already upon us, and 16 of the best female African teams on the continent are set to do battle to earn the status of queens of the continent, Soccernet.ng reports.
The champion will ultimately be decided by a combination of form, experience, and tactical execution. This is the first edition in its expanded 16-team format, and it carries massive stakes beyond the trophy, as direct qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup is at stake.
As previously reported by Soccernet.ng, the new format grants all four semi-finalists automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, while the four losing quarter-finalists will battle it out in playoffs for two spots in the intercontinental qualifiers.
Ahead of the tournament's kickoff, Soccernet.ng has highlighted the top four favorites to claim the crown. Of course, 10-time queens and defending champions, the Super Falcons top the list. Let's find out who the other three are!
Nigeria: Can The Super Falcons Retain The Cup?
Coming off the back of their historic triumph in the last edition, the Super Falcons remain the team to beat in Africa, having edged Morocco 3-2 in a thrilling final to lift the last trophy.
The African queens have dominated the continental stage, winning 10 of the 14 WAFCON editions to stand as the undisputed powerhouse of the competition. The fact they were able to stage a remarkable comeback from a two-goal deficit in 45 minutes against hosts Morocco last year just tells you about their dominance.
In this competition, Nigeria's squad boasts a blend of experience and formidable talent. Most of the key players from the last edition are still here, including Asisat Oshoala, Rasheedat Ajibade, Michelle Alozie, Chiamaka Nnadozie, and Esther Okoronkwo. Although the preparation has not been classy, their antecedents and quality can definitely see them through.
Morocco: Will the Host Nation Go All the Way?
The Atlas Lionesses have yet to win a WAFCON title, but they enter the tournament as major contenders fueled by rapid growth and home advantage. Morocco came agonistically close in the last edition, surging to a 2-0 first-half lead before the Super Falcons orchestrated a stunning 3-2 comeback.
As a rising force in African women's football, the host nation finished as runners-up in both 2022 and 2024, cementing their status as the first North and Arab nation to reach the tournament's final.
They are led by inspirational captain and talisman Ghizlane Chebbak, who is the reigning CAF Women's Player of the Year. They also have other stars like Fatima Tagnaout, Kenza Chapelle, and goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi. Over the years, they have invested heavily in Women's football, and they will be optimistic to reap the benefits in front of their home fans at WAFCON 2026.
Can South Africa Reign in WAFCON 2026?
After years of knocking, Banyana Banyana conquered the continent in 2022 by defeating Morocco to claim their maiden WAFCON title. And since then, they have remained among the elite contenders.
They have a decent draw in the group stage, as they will face Côte d'Ivoire, Burkina Faso, and Tanzania. These are all beatable opponents. And with their charismatic coach Desiree Ellis still in charge, South Africa can definitely make some noise.
The Banyana Banyana have some pretty impressive talents on their roster, with the likes of star girl Thembi Kgatlana, Motlhalo Linda, and Karabo Dhlamini. A good chunk of the players also ply their trade at home, so they have a good understanding with each other.
Algeria Eye Historic Breakthrough
Les Vertes have steadily established themselves as a competitive force in women's football across North Africa. While Algeria is still searching for its first continental title, the 2026 edition could present the breakthrough moment they have been striving for.
They are already scratching hard on the surface. Last time out, they reached the quarterfinal for the first time, playing a beautiful brand of football. This time, they will be looking to build on that performance. They were the only team that the Super Falcons failed to beat at the last WAFCON.
The Algerians have been coached by former PSG Women boss Farid Benstiti, so they have chemistry. That will definitely come to play in this tournament and would be an advantage.
