The ultimate WAFCON 2026 preview: Teams, players and storylines to watch this year

The ultimate WAFCON 2026 preview: Teams, players and storylines to watch this year WAFCON returns to Morocco for the 2026 edition, in a fascinating moment for African women’s football. Established powers are under pressure, new nations are arriving with ambition, and some of the continent’s biggest stars are coming off outstanding seasons in Europe.  The competition this year is intense as more players than ever before are competing in Europe’s top leagues, while those in domestic competitions across Africa continue to grow in quality. This means the gap between the continent’s traditional heavyweights and emerging challengers is steadily narrowing. From defending champions Nigeria seeking to add another chapter to their unparalleled legacy, to hosts Morocco chasing history on home soil. And from South Africa looking to reclaim continental supremacy, to Zambia’s golden generation hoping to convert promise into silverware, this year’s tournament is packed with compelling narratives before a ball has even been kicked. Whether you are following WAFCON for the first time or have watched the competition evolve over the years, here’s everything you need to know before the action begins. The early favourites at WAFCON 2026 No conversation about WAFCON can begin anywhere other than with Nigeria. The Super Falcons remain the most decorated side in the competition’s history and arrive with a squad boasting world-class experience across every department. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie continues to establish herself among the world’s elite, while captain Rasheedat Ajibade carries the responsibility of leading a new generation. Alongside experienced names such as Asisat Oshoala, Uchenna Kanu and Francisca Ordega, who is a veteran at this point.  Nigeria’s blend of pedigree, depth and tournament know-how makes them one of the teams everyone else will measure themselves against. Standing in their way are a familiar group of challengers. Embed from Getty Images South Africa remains one of Africa’s most tactically sophisticated teams. Banyana Banyana have consistently demonstrated that they can compete with the continent’s best through intelligent possession football, disciplined defensive organisation and the match-winning qualities of players like Hildah Magaia and Linda Motlhalo. Morocco, meanwhile, have rapidly become one of African football’s success stories. After reaching the final on home soil in 2022, the Atlas Lionesses once again enjoy home advantage and will hope passionate crowds can inspire another memorable campaign. Led by captain Ghizlane Chebbak, they possess the technical quality and growing confidence to challenge for the title. Then there is Zambia. Few teams possess an attack as frightening as the Copper Queens’. Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji have become global stars following outstanding seasons in the NWSL, and if they find their rhythm together, Zambia will trouble every defence they face. The Bayana Bayana celebrating their first WAFCON trophy after two decades of waiting. PC (CAF Media) Keep an eye on the dark horses One of WAFCON’s greatest strengths is its unpredictability. While the finals have revolved around three or four countries, there are always one or two eager to shock the continent.  Ghana returns eager to remind everyone of their pedigree after years away from the latter stages of the competition. Côte d’Ivoire has quietly built one of their strongest squads in recent memory and look increasingly comfortable competing with Africa’s established powers. Mali continue to produce technically gifted players capable of frustrating stronger opponents, while Senegal’s physicality and organisation mean they cannot be overlooked if they reach the knockout rounds. None may begin the tournament among the favourites, but each has enough quality to change the complexion of the competition. Malawian celebrates their WAFCON qualification. New faces and new ambitions Every major tournament needs a fresh story. This year, the debutants arrive determined to prove they belong on Africa’s biggest stage. For nations making their first WAFCON appearance, qualification itself represents years of investment, development and belief. Their objective will be simple: compete fearlessly, embrace the occasion and show that African women’s football continues to expand beyond its traditional powerhouses. And if there is a debutant to watch out for, it would be Malawi. Players who could light up the tournament While WAFCON has always celebrated collective success, individual brilliance often shapes its defining moments. Barbra Banda enters the tournament as arguably Africa’s most feared forward after another prolific club season. Her combination of power, pace and finishing makes her one of the favourites for the Golden Boot. Alongside her, fellow Zambian Racheal Kundananji possesses the ability to change games with explosive running and relentless directness. Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie remains one of the world’s premier goalkeepers and could once again prove decisive in the knockout rounds, while Rasheedat Ajibade’s leadership and versatility will be central to the Super Falcons’ ambitions. Embed from Getty Images Hosts Morocco will once again look towards Ghizlane Chebbak for inspiration, while South Africa’s Thembi Kgatlana remains capable of producing moments that alter the course of a tournament. Beyond the established stars, WAFCON has always provided a platform for emerging talents to announce themselves. Expect at least one young player to leave Morocco as one of African football’s newest household names. It’s going to be three weeks of premium football and if you love entertainment and fancy some thrills, then you should stay glued to WAFCON. Related articles from Her Football Hub: Earth FC: The environmental campaign ‘defending where football lives’ Why do we become football fans?: Types of supporters and the psychology behind it CAF invests in efforts to improve leadership of women’s football associations across Africa