CAF Expands WAFCON to 16 Teams, Setting Up Fiercer Battle for Super Falcons

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced that the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) will expand from 12 to 16 teams starting with the 2026 edition in Morocco, adding a new level of competition for reigning champions Nigeria.

The change marks a major milestone for women’s football across the continent, giving more nations the chance to compete at the highest level. Countries like Cameroon, Egypt, Ivory Coast, and Mali, who narrowly missed qualification, will now join as the best-ranked losing teams.

With Morocco hosting again and the tournament doubling as a qualifier for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil, the stakes have never been higher. Traditional powerhouses South Africa, Ghana, and Zambia are also in the mix, setting the stage for one of the toughest WAFCON tournaments yet.

Despite the growing challenge, the Super Falcons remain confident. Forward Esther Okoronkwo, who shone during the qualifiers with a goal and assist against Benin Republic, said the team is determined to retain their crown. “We’re not going there to not want to win… We want to win the 11th for sure,” she said.

Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football remains unmatched — ten titles in thirteen tournaments and qualification for every Women’s World Cup so far. Their thrilling 2025 victory over hosts Morocco, where Okoronkwo was named Player of the Match, showcased their enduring class and fighting spirit.

However, with CAF’s expansion inviting fresh challengers, the 2026 edition promises to be the most competitive yet. Still, the Super Falcons head to Morocco determined to extend their legendary legacy and capture an unprecedented 11th continental title.