The Executive Committee of the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) has officially confirmed and approved the expansion of the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) from 12 to 16 teams, beginning with the 2026 edition in Morocco, scheduled for 17 March – 3 April 2026.
CAF confirmed the decision on Monday, describing it as a major step forward in strengthening the competitiveness, visibility, and development of women’s football across the continent.
“This will allow more nations to participate in African women’s football’s flagship competition, contributing to its continued growth and global reach,” CAF stated.
Why CAF Expanded WAFCON Participation from 14 to 16 Teams
With the qualification phase for WAFCON 2026 already concluded, CAF approved a ranking-based mechanism to determine the remaining four teams.
“Based on the current FIFA Women’s World Rankings, the top four teams from those eliminated in the final qualifying round have been selected to complete the list of participants,” CAF said.
Based on current FIFA Women’s World Rankings, the four highest-ranked teams eliminated in the final qualifying round have been selected:
- Cameroon (66th)
- Côte d’Ivoire (71st)
- Mali (79th)
- Egypt (95th)
These teams join the 12 already qualified for the tournament.
Full List of Qualified Nations – WAFCON Morocco 2026
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Morocco (hosts)
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Nigeria
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South Africa
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Zambia
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Algeria
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Ghana
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Tanzania
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Malawi
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Kenya
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Burkina Faso
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Cape Verde
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Senegal
Morocco WAFCON 2026 Contenders
- Nigeria:- 10-time champions
Still the team to beat as the Falcons remain heavy favourites.
- Morocco:- Host Nation
Backed by passionate home fans, the Atlas Lionesses want to go one better after their narrow 2022 final defeat.
- South Africa
The defending champions (2022 winners) remain dangerous, inventive, and fiercely competitive.
- Zambia, Ghana, Senegal & Tanzania
A new generation of challengers rising with confidence.
- Debutants: Cape Verde & Malawi
Two exciting newcomers adding fresh energy to the tournament.
WAFCON Tournament: Rich in Storylines
The 2026 WAFCON promises to be the most competitive in the tournament’s history. Host nation Morocco, runners-up in the last two editions, will be backed by passionate home support as they chase a historic first title.
Ten-time champions Nigeria, meanwhile, remain the team to beat. The Super Falcons seek an 11th continental crown, extending their unmatched dominance in Africa.
Other traditional powerhouses like South Africa, Ghana, Zambia, arrive with stronger squads and renewed ambition.
Also, WAFCON 2026 will also be a stage for emerging nations:
- Cape Verde and Malawi will make their first-ever finals appearances
- Kenya and Burkina Faso return after long absences
- Senegal, Tanzania, Algeria
2027 Women’s World Cup Tickets at Stake
Beyond continental bragging rights, WAFCON 2026 doubles as the African qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
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The four semi-finalists will earn automatic World Cup spots
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Two additional African teams will enter the FIFA intercontinental playoff
Super Falcons Qualify for Morocco 2026
Nigeria seal 16th consecutive WAFCON ticket after 3–1 aggregate win over Benin
The Super Falcons of Nigeria have officially confirmed their qualification for the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after dispatching Benin Republic 3–1 on aggregate in the final qualifying round.
After winning 2–0 in Cotonou, the Falcons returned home to secure a 1–1 draw at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta, sealing an historic 16th straight qualification, a record unmatched in African women’s football.
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First leg: Benin 0–2 Nigeria (Cotonou)
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Second leg: Nigeria 1–1 Benin (Abeokuta)
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Aggregate: Nigeria wins 3–1
Nigeria at the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON)
Appearances: 14 (1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018, 2022, 2024 & 2026)
Best Performance: Winners (1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2016, 2018 & 2024)
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