 |
| Follow the Women's Africa Cup of Nations games, fixtures, and key matches as Africa's top teams compete in Morocco. |
The countdown is over as the Women's Africa Cup of Nations games return with another exciting edition. The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) officially kicks off in Morocco from 25 July to 16 August 2026, bringing together the continent's top women's national teams in the battle for African glory.
This year's tournament is particularly significant because it also serves as Africa's qualification tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil. With World Cup places, increased prize money, and continental pride on the line, fans can expect one of the most competitive WAFCON tournaments ever.
Women's Africa Cup of Nations Games Overview
Here are the key details of the tournament:
| Tournament | 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations |
|---|---|
| Host | Morocco |
| Dates | 25 July – 16 August 2026 |
| Teams | 16 |
| Organizer | Confederation of African Football (CAF) |
| World Cup Qualification | Brazil 2027 Qualifier |
Morocco becomes the host nation once again, continuing its investment in African women's football after successfully staging previous editions.
Why This WAFCON Is Important
The Women's Africa Cup of Nations games are about much more than lifting the continental trophy.
CAF has confirmed that:
- The four semi-finalists will qualify directly for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.
- Two additional teams will advance to the FIFA Women's World Cup Play-Off Tournament for another chance to qualify.
For many nations, this tournament represents the biggest opportunity to secure a place at the next Women's World Cup.
Participating Teams
Sixteen countries will compete in Morocco.
Group A
- Morocco
- Algeria
- Senegal
- Kenya
Group B
- South Africa
- Côte d'Ivoire
- Burkina Faso
- Tanzania
Group C
- Nigeria
- Zambia
- Egypt
- Malawi
Group D
- Ghana
- Cameroon
- Mali
- Cabo Verde
Women's Africa Cup of Nations Games Fixtures
The opening round features several exciting matches.
Highlights include:
- Algeria vs Senegal
- Morocco vs Kenya
- South Africa vs Tanzania
- Côte d'Ivoire vs Burkina Faso
- Zambia vs Egypt
- Nigeria vs Malawi
- Ghana vs Cabo Verde
- Cameroon vs Mali
Fans can expect three weeks of competitive football before the final on 16 August 2026.
Increased Prize Money for WAFCON 2026
CAF has announced a historic increase in prize money for this edition.
Some of the major changes include:
- Champions: USD 2 million (100% increase)
- Runner-up: USD 750,000 (50% increase)
- Total prize fund increased by 67%
- Every participating team receives increased participation fees.
The increase reflects CAF's growing commitment to developing women's football across Africa.
Morocco Ready to Host Again
Morocco has earned praise for hosting major CAF tournaments in recent years.
The country has invested heavily in:
- Modern stadiums
- Training facilities
- Fan experience
- Football infrastructure
Many supporters believe Morocco is well-positioned to deliver another successful Women's Africa Cup of Nations.
Teams to Watch
Several nations enter the tournament as favourites.
Nigeria
The Super Falcons remain Africa's most successful women's national team and will be looking to add another continental title.
South Africa
The defending champions have continued to improve and possess one of Africa's strongest squads.
Morocco
Backed by home support, Morocco hopes to make another deep run in the competition.
Zambia
Led by several internationally recognized stars, Zambia continues to emerge as one of Africa's fastest-rising women's teams.
Where to Watch the Women's Africa Cup of Nations Games
CAF has confirmed that the tournament will be broadcast across Africa and internationally through multiple television and streaming partners.
Availability varies by country, so fans should check their local broadcasters or CAF's official platforms for match schedules and live coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the Women's Africa Cup of Nations games start?
The tournament begins on 25 July 2026 and concludes on 16 August 2026.
Where is WAFCON 2026 being played?
Morocco is hosting the competition.
How many teams qualify for the FIFA Women's World Cup?
The four semi-finalists qualify automatically for Brazil 2027, while two additional teams advance to the intercontinental play-offs.
How much will the runners-up receive?
CAF has increased the runners-up prize by 50%, meaning they will receive USD 750,000.
Final Thoughts
The Women's Africa Cup of Nations games promise to deliver unforgettable football as the continent's best teams compete for the championship and coveted places at the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.
With Morocco hosting once again, record prize money, stronger competition, and growing global interest in women's football, WAFCON 2026 could become the biggest edition in the tournament's history.
Whether you're supporting Nigeria's Super Falcons, South Africa's Banyana Banyana, hosts Morocco, or another national team, now is the perfect time to celebrate African women's football.
Stay tuned for daily WAFCON fixtures, match reports, standings, and qualification updates by bookmarking our website for the latest African football news.
