The world is set to experience the best of women’s football on display from Africa as the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) kicked off in Morocco yesterday, Saturday, July 5.
Postponed from last year, the 2024 WAFCON is a show of African football excellence, and it’s clear that the continent is buzzing with excitement.
Morocco hosted the last edition, but this installment marks a new era in women’s football on the continent, building on the momentum of the previous tournament.
A fresh look for Olympic Stadium in Rabat. ️
The prize money for the tournament has been jacked up to $1m, which is a significant increase and a testament to the growing popularity of the sport. The runners-up will get $500,000, while the third-placed and fourth-placed sides will go home with $350,000 and $300,000, respectively. In total, there is $3,475,000 up for grabs, making it a highly competitive tournament.
CAF also introduced a new trophy for the competition.
Twelve teams will participate, divided into three groups, and the competition is expected to be fierce.
The first two teams in each group will qualify for the quarter-finals alongside the two best third-placed countries, ensuring that every match counts. Running from July 5 to 26, the 2024 WAFCON coincides with the Women’s Euro, making it a thrilling summer for football fans.
The opening match will be between hosts Morocco and the Copper Queens of Zambia, and both sides are looking strong. Both sides impressed in the last edition staged in the North African country, with the Atlas Lionesses reaching their first final of the WAFCON, losing out to eventual winners South Africa. Zambia defeated Nigeria to claim bronze three years ago, and they’ll be looking to build on that success.
South Africa, the defending champions, will be aiming for their second WAFCON title after finally conquering the continent following several heartbreaking losses in past editions.
Nigeria’s Mission X
Having missed out on the podium in Morocco last time out, Nigeria’s Super Falcons are aiming to make it a 10th WAFCON title, and they’re determined to make a strong impression.
They are in Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana, and the competition is expected to be tough. Coach Justin Madugu’s ladies will begin their title quest against Tunisia today, ready to start the competition on a winning note.
Nigeria boast an array of experienced and youthful players heading to Morocco, and they’ll be looking to make the most of their talent.
Veteran forward Asisat Oshoala, who has won the CAF Women’s Footballer of the Year prize six times, will be on hand to provide vital support to a team brimming with talent and experience.
With a defence that has reigning CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, Chiamaka Nnadozie, the hardworking defender Osinachi Ohale, and the highly-rated Ashleigh Plumptre, many teams may struggle to break down the Nigerian defence.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade’s versatility and experience will be complemented by the youthful flair of Tosin Demehin, Michelle Alozie, Sikiratu Isah, Miracle Usani, and Deborah Abiodun.
The Super Falcons will be buoyed by a string of positive results heading into the tournament, and they’ll be looking to build on that momentum.
Nigeria played three matches, winning two and drawing one — against European side Portugal, with victories over Cameroon and Ghana coming in between.
Though Nigeria have the highest titles, a tenth crown in Morocco will further reinforce their dominance in African women’s football. As they begin the quest on Sunday, the Super Falcons will require diligence, discipline, resoluteness, among other qualities, to make “Mission X” a reality!
