The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) has officially kicked off in Morocco, with Africa's number-one women's football tournament running from July 26 to August 16, Soccernet.ng reports.
Organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), this year's competition is historic because it is the first WAFCON to feature 16 teams, expanding from the previous 12-team format.
Morocco is hosting the tournament for a third straight edition, with matches taking place across stadiums in Rabat and Casablanca. The competition is even more important because it doubles as Africa's qualification tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil. The four semi-finalists will book automatic places at the World Cup, while the losing quarter-finalists will battle for a chance to reach the intercontinental play-offs.
CAF has also increased the prize money, with the champions set to receive a record $2 million from a total tournament prize fund of $5.8 million.
Defending champions Nigeria are aiming to win a record 11th WAFCON title, but they face stiff competition from hosts Morocco, defending finalists South Africa, an exciting Zambia side and tournament newcomers Malawi and Cape Verde, who hope to make history on their debut appearances.
With world-class stars, experienced leaders and exciting young talents all competing on one stage, here are 10 players who could shape WAFCON 2026.
WAFCON top stars to watch
Barbra Banda (Zambia), Africa's most dangerous striker
Few players arrive at WAFCON with more confidence than Barbra Banda. The 26-year-old Orlando Pride striker is one of the biggest names in women's football after dominating the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) in the United States. Her speed, strength and powerful finishing make her a tough forward to stop.
Banda can score with either foot, beat defenders in one-on-one situations and create chances out of almost nothing. Zambia will rely heavily on her goals if they are to challenge for their first-ever WAFCON title, and she is already one of the favourites to win the tournament's Golden Boot.
Temwa Chawinga (Malawi), the goalscoring machine
Malawi are making their first appearance at WAFCON, but they arrive with one of Africa's deadliest attackers. Temwa Chawinga, who plays for Kansas City Current, has built a reputation as an elite finisher with few equals. Her pace behind defenders and calmness in front of goal have made her a nightmare for defenders in the NWSL.
She carries the hopes of an entire nation that is dreaming of causing major upsets during its historic debut.
Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria): The wall behind the Super Falcons
Nigeria's hopes of defending their continental title rest on stopping goals just as much as scoring them. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, now with Brighton & Hove Albion, has been Africa's best goalkeeper for the past three years.
At 25, she has already built a reputation for producing brilliant reflex saves, commanding her defence and staying calm during high-pressure moments. Her performances have helped Nigeria win difficult matches in the past, and another strong tournament could once again make the Super Falcons a difficult customer to break down.
Tabitha Chawinga (Malawi), experience meets quality
While Temwa brings explosive pace, her older sister Tabitha Chawinga offers experience and consistency. Fresh from helping Lyon win the French league title after scoring 11 goals, Tabitha will cause a lot of trouble in Morocco.
She can play through the middle or out wide, creating space for teammates while also scoring important goals herself. Together, the Chawinga sisters form arguably the most exciting attacking partnership in this year's tournament.
Thembi Kgatlana (South Africa): The champion returns
South Africa will be delighted to have Thembi Kgatlana back. The 30-year-old forward has already won the CAF African Women's Player of the Year award and has delivered memorable performances for Banyana Banyana over the years.
Her direct running, blistering speed and ability to score in big matches make her a dangerous threat on any random day. If South Africa are to challenge for another continental title, Kgatlana will almost certainly play a leading role.
Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco), the captain carrying home hopes
Hosting WAFCON brings huge pressure, but Morocco know they have the perfect leader. At 36 years old, captain Ghizlane Chebbak remains the creative heartbeat of the Atlas Lionesses.
The reigning African Women's Footballer of the Year controls matches with intelligent passing, dangerous free-kicks and excellent vision. Every time Morocco need inspiration, the home fans will expect Chebbak to provide it.
Deborah Abiodun (Nigeria), the midfield engine
Nigeria's midfield has an immense young talent in Deborah Abiodun. The 22-year-old Washington Spirit midfielder has earned the nickname “Kante” because of her incredible work rate. She covers huge areas of the pitch, wins tackles, breaks up opposition attacks and quickly starts counter-attacks.
Her growing confidence on the ball and willingness to shoot from distance also give Nigeria another attacking weapon.
Sanaâ Mssoudy (Morocco), the creative spark
While Chebbak often attracts defenders, Sanaâ Mssoudy quietly creates problems all over the pitch.
The 26-year-old AS FAR midfielder is one of the best players based in African club football. She is known for driving forward with the ball, beating defenders and making smart decisions in the final third.
If Morocco make another deep run at WAFCON, Mssoudy's creativity will be one of the main reasons.
Faith Chinzimu (Malawi), the teenage star ready for the big stage
Only 19 years old, Faith Chinzimu already looks ready for international football. She became a national hero after scoring two late goals against Angola to help Malawi qualify for WAFCON for the first time.
Now developing her game with Swedish club BK Häcken, Chinzimu has shown maturity beyond her years. This tournament offers her the perfect opportunity to announce herself as one of the brightest young midfielders to come from the continent.
Hasnath Ubamba (Tanzania), the rising winger attracting attention
One of the most exciting young players at WAFCON 2026 is Tanzania's Hasnath Ubamba. The 20-year-old winger enjoyed an outstanding season with FC Masar in Egypt, contributing an incredible 49 goal involvements. Her impressive performances have already earned her a move to Spanish club Madrid CFF after the tournament.
Fast, skillful and fearless in one-on-one situations, Ubamba now has the chance to prove herself against Africa's best defenders and show why many believe she is one of the continent's next major stars.
