Super Falcons Begin WAFCON Title Defence July 26

The Super Falcons WAFCON title defence will begin as the expanded 16-team tournament kicks off on July 26 in Morocco. Nigeria’s women head into the competition chasing a record-extending 11th continental crown.

The champions arrive as the team to beat, having lifted the trophy in the last edition.

How the tournament opens

WAFCON 2026 opens on July 26 in Rabat, where hosts Morocco face Kenya at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium. The match starts at 21:00 local time.

This is the first time the tournament features 16 teams, a sign of how fast the women’s game is growing across Africa. The bigger field promises more competitive group-stage fixtures.

Nigeria’s group and first match

The Super Falcons have been drawn in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and debutants Malawi. It is a tricky group, with Zambia in particular boasting dangerous attackers.

Nigeria begin their campaign against Malawi on July 28 at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. A strong start would settle nerves and build momentum for the tougher tests to come.

Chasing an 11th crown

The Super Falcons remain the most successful side in the competition’s history. They won the previous edition by beating hosts Morocco 3-2 in a dramatic final in Rabat.

That victory gave them a record 10th title. Another triumph this year would stretch their lead at the top to 11 and reinforce their status as Africa’s dominant women’s team.

More than a trophy at stake

There is added weight to this WAFCON. The tournament doubles as Africa’s qualifying event for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, set for Brazil in 2027.

That means every result carries long-term meaning. A deep run would secure both continental glory and a place on the global stage.

Preparations and expectations

The Super Falcons have stepped up their build-up, including a training tour to sharpen fitness and cohesion. Coaching staff want the squad peaking when the group games start.

Pressure comes with being defending champions, but the team has the experience to handle it. With a blend of seasoned stars and rising talent, Nigeria will fancy their chances of going all the way again.

Fans at home will be watching closely, hoping the Falcons can once more bring the trophy back to Nigeria.

The threats in Group C

Zambia loom as the biggest danger in the group, powered by forwards who have troubled top sides. Egypt bring physicality, while Malawi will arrive eager to make a mark on their debut.

Nigeria cannot afford a slow start. With a 16-team format, dropped points early can complicate a side’s path to the knockout rounds.

Stars to watch

The Super Falcons blend Europe-based professionals with experienced leaders. Their depth in attack and midfield has long been the foundation of their dominance.

Keeping key players fit and sharp will be vital across a demanding schedule. Squad rotation could prove just as important as the starting eleven.

If they hit form at the right time, few teams on the continent can match Nigeria’s pedigree. That history makes them favourites once again as the tournament nears.

Source: Nigeria women’s national football team

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