Nigeria’s Super Falcons will learn their opponents for the group stage at the WAFCON 2026 draw on Thursday in Rabat, Morocco, signaling the start of Africa’s premier women’s football tournament.
The ceremony will take place at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex, bringing together officials, coaches, and players from all 16 qualified nations. CAF officials will oversee the proceedings.
Holders Super Falcons are among the favorites in the expanded 16-team competition. “We are excited and focused,” said Super Falcons captain Asisat Oshoala. “Every team will be tough.”
Other participating nations include hosts Morocco, Algeria, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, and Zambia.
Teams will be seeded into four pots according to the FIFA Women’s World Ranking as of 11 December 2025. CAF President Patrice Motsepe will give a keynote address.
“CAF is proud to witness another exciting chapter of women’s football in Africa,” Motsepe said. “The WAFCON 2026 draw will shape the road to continental glory.”
The Women’s Africa Cup of Nations has grown in popularity, with expanded participation reflecting the sport’s progress across Africa. Attendance and broadcast reach are expected to break previous records.
Nigeria has a rich history in WAFCON tournaments, winning multiple titles. Coach Randy Waldrum emphasized preparation, saying, “Our team is ready, mentally and physically, to face any opponent.”
The Super Falcons trained intensively in Lagos before traveling to Morocco. Sessions focused on strategy, fitness, and team cohesion, ensuring the squad is at its peak for the tournament.
Hosts Morocco, who automatically qualified, are eager to impress on home soil. Coach Reynald Pedros commented, “Playing at Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex gives us energy. The crowd support will be massive.”
CAF will also reveal the winners of CAF Women’s Coach of the Year and other outstanding awards during the WAFCON 2026 draw, celebrating excellence in African women’s football.
“Recognizing coaching talent is crucial,” said CAF Women’s Football Director Mercy Tagoe. “It motivates teams and inspires young players across the continent to aim higher.”
The tournament schedule spans from 17 March to 3 April 2026, offering 18 days of high-level football, drama, and intense rivalry as the Super Falcons aim to extend their dominance.
Nigeria’s squad features seasoned internationals and rising stars. Asisat Oshoala noted, “We have experience, but young players bring energy. Blending both is our strength heading into the WAFCON 2026 draw.”
Several teams are considered underdogs, including Cape Verde, Malawi, and Tanzania, but history shows surprises are always possible in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
CAF continues to invest in women’s football development. “We are building infrastructure, coaching programs, and youth pathways to ensure African teams compete at the highest level,” stated Motsepe.
The Super Falcons are determined to maintain their continental supremacy. Forward Francisca Ordega said, “We respect every opponent, but our goal is clear — to lift the trophy again.”
Morocco hopes to capitalize on home advantage. The national team has strengthened its squad, blending veterans with emerging talents, aiming to thrill fans at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex.
Algeria, Cameroon, Ghana, and South Africa are all considered strong competitors. Their tactical approaches and experienced squads will test the Super Falcons in each group stage match.
Team preparation involved friendly matches and international camps. Nigeria played against European and African sides, focusing on tactical flexibility and mental toughness before arriving in Morocco for the tournament.
“Exposure to international matches builds confidence,” said Waldrum. “It helps the Super Falcons adapt quickly when the competition becomes intense after the WAFCON 2026 draw.”
The draw procedure uses pots determined by FIFA rankings, ensuring balanced groups. Teams and fans eagerly await the outcome, as group compositions influence strategy and potential knockout pathways.
CAF officials highlighted the importance of fair competition and transparency. “Every team deserves a fair chance,” Tagoe said. “The WAFCON 2026 draw represents that principle fully.”
Fans across Africa are expected to follow the draw ceremony live. Social media engagement has surged, with supporters excited to see the Super Falcons’ potential opponents.
Broadcast networks in Nigeria, Morocco, and beyond are preparing live coverage. Commentators will provide analysis, historical context, and expert opinions, enhancing fans’ understanding of each group.
Youth development remains a priority. Many players in WAFCON squads, including Nigeria, came through grassroots programs, academies, and local leagues designed to strengthen women’s football on the continent.
“The Super Falcons serve as role models,” said former CAF Women’s Player of the Year, Desire Oparanozie. “They inspire girls to dream, train, and believe in African football.”
Cape Verde and Burkina Faso, despite limited history in WAFCON, aim to make a mark. “Every match is an opportunity,” said Burkina Faso’s captain, Fatoumata Coulibaly.
Egypt, Senegal, and Zambia are expected to field competitive squads. Technical directors are studying opposition strengths, indicating the tournament will feature sophisticated tactical battles.
The WAFCON 2026 draw sets the tone for the entire tournament. Coaches, players, and fans will analyze matchups, preparing for the challenges and excitement of the group stage.
Nigeria’s team management stressed discipline, focus, and team spirit. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie said, “Our unity is our strength. That will help the Super Falcons face every challenge confidently.”
CAF plans to leverage WAFCON 2026 to further promote women’s football in Africa, emphasizing inclusion, professional standards, and enhanced media coverage across the continent.
Media partners are highlighting the stories behind each team. Player profiles, historical achievements, and tournament journeys will be shared to increase fan engagement and tournament visibility.
Morocco has invested heavily in stadium upgrades, training facilities, and logistics. The Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex will host key matches, offering players and fans a world-class environment.
The Super Falcons are aware of rising African talent. Oshoala stated, “Africa’s level is improving. Every opponent will challenge us, but we are ready for the WAFCON 2026 draw.”
Preparation includes nutrition programs, recovery sessions, and psychological training. CAF encourages national teams to prioritize holistic support, ensuring players perform at their peak throughout the tournament.
Read also: AFCON 2025: Super Eagles unfazed by Moroccan home crowd
Fans’ anticipation continues to grow. Social media hashtags like #WAFCON2026, #SuperFalcons, and #RoadToVictory are trending across the continent ahead of the ceremonial draw.
The WAFCON 2026 draw will determine paths for glory, rivalries, and unforgettable moments. Africa’s top women’s teams are ready to showcase skill, resilience, and passion in Rabat.
Coach Randy Waldrum concluded, “Our mission is simple: respect every opponent, give our best, and honor Nigeria. The Super Falcons are ready for the challenge.”
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