The countdown to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) enters a crucial phase on Monday as Nigeria’s Super Falcons officially begin camping in Morocco ahead of another quest for continental glory.
With expectations high and history on the line, the nine-time African champions will gather in Casablanca, where head coach Justine Madugu is expected to begin intensive preparations with his 25-player squad before the tournament kicks off later this month.
Every invited player is expected to report to camp as the Falcons fine-tune tactics, improve fitness and build team chemistry ahead of what promises to be another fiercely contested championship.
Nigeria head into the tournament determined to reassert their dominance in African women’s football by lifting a record-extending 10th WAFCON trophy.
Having remained the continent’s most successful women’s national team for decades, the Super Falcons will be looking to stamp their authority once again when the competition begins in Morocco.
After completing the first phase of preparations in Casablanca, the team will relocate to Rabat, where all their Group C fixtures will be played.
Tough Group C Challenge Awaits Nigeria
The Super Falcons have been drawn in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and tournament debutants Malawi.
Nigeria will begin their campaign against the Scorchers of Malawi at Al Madina Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday, July 28.
Madugu’s side will then face one of their toughest group opponents, Zambia’s Copper Queens, at the same venue on Saturday, August 1, before concluding the group stage against Egypt at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat on Wednesday, August 5.
With only the strongest teams progressing to the knockout rounds, Nigeria will be aiming to make an early statement in the competition.
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Beyond the race for the African title, this year’s tournament carries even greater importance.
The 2026 WAFCON will also determine Africa’s representatives at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup scheduled to be held in Brazil.
The four best-performing teams at the tournament will automatically qualify for the global showpiece, adding extra significance to every match.
For the Super Falcons, the mission is clear—reclaim continental supremacy while securing an early ticket to the next Women’s World Cup.