Sixteen countries will compete for continental supremacy at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco as they also pursue qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
The tournament, regarded as one of the biggest editions in the competition’s history, brings together established powerhouses, emerging contenders and debutants seeking to leave their mark on African women’s football.
An assessment published by ESPN Africa ranked the participating teams according to their prospects before the start of the championship, with Nigeria tipped as the leading contender for the trophy.
1. Nigeria
The Super Falcons enter the competition as the highest-ranked favourites after winning a record 10 WAFCON titles and defending their crown, with another triumph widely expected because of their experience, squad depth and consistent success at the tournament.
2. Morocco
The hosts begin another home campaign with confidence after recent progress in women’s football, while African Women’s Footballer of the Year, Ghizlane Chebbak, is expected to play a central role in their pursuit of the title.
3. South Africa
Banyana Banyana remain among Africa’s strongest teams under coach Desiree Ellis, with the return of Thembi Kgatlana strengthening a balanced squad capable of mounting another serious title challenge.
4. Ghana
The Black Queens have shown renewed form under Kim Bjorkegren and arrive with a blend of experienced players and emerging talents that could take them deep into the competition.
5. Zambia
Armed with attacking stars Barbra Banda and Rachael Kundananji, Zambia possess one of the continent’s most potent forward lines despite lingering concerns over their defensive stability.
6. Senegal
Senegal continue to build on their impressive performances from the previous edition, relying on experience and a direct style of play capable of troubling any opponent.
7. Algeria
Algeria have steadily progressed under Farid Benstiti and are viewed as potential dark horses because of their disciplined defensive organisation and tactical approach.
8. Cameroon
Although the Indomitable Lionesses no longer dominate African football as they once did, they remain an experienced side capable of producing unexpected results.
9. Ivory Coast
Returning to the tournament after a 12-year absence, Ivory Coast combine athleticism with attacking quality and could emerge as one of the competition’s surprise teams.
10. Mali
Mali may have struggled for consistency in recent outings, but the quality within their squad, particularly among players based in Europe, gives them a realistic chance of reaching the knockout stage.
11. Egypt
Egypt return to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after a decade away and continue rebuilding, with progression beyond the group phase considered a positive outcome.
12. Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso secured qualification in convincing fashion and have developed into a well-organised side, although stronger opponents may present a greater challenge.
13. Cape Verde
Cape Verde make their first appearance at the tournament after an impressive qualification campaign and will hope their adventurous style compensates for their lack of experience.
14. Tanzania
Tanzania are recognised for their defensive discipline but face a difficult task against more experienced and technically stronger teams.
15. Malawi
Malawi will rely heavily on the attacking influence of the Chawinga sisters, although limited squad depth and a demanding group present significant obstacles.
16. Kenya
Kenya return to the continental championship after a 10-year absence, but their limited experience at this level leaves them as the tournament’s least-fancied side despite the achievement of qualifying.
With the race for the continental crown set to begin, Africa’s leading women’s teams will seek not only to lift the WAFCON trophy but also to secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where the continent’s best will compete on the global stage.
