It hasn’t even been
a week since Spain lifted its second FIFA World Cup trophy, but football fans won’t have to wait long before another major international tournament gets underway. This time, the spotlight shifts from the whole world to the African continent, where the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) is about to kick off. Africa’s top national teams will battle it out with one goal in mind: bringing the much coveted trophy home. Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s WAFCON edition.
First, What is WAFCON?
The Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, better known as WAFCON, is the biggest tournament in women’s football on the African continent. Organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) it brings together Africa’s top national teams every two years to compete for the continental title, and depending on the edition, places at major international tournaments.As this year’s competition falls just before the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, there is even more at stake: the four teams that reach the semi-finals will automatically qualify for the tournament in Brazil.
When is the next WAFCON?
The next edition kicks off on July 26, 2026, and wraps up on Aug. 16, 2026. CAF moved the tournament to the summer, citing ‘unforeseen circumstances,’ after it was originally due to take place earlier in the year. It was initially planned to be hosted from March 17 to April 3, 2026.
How long does WAFCON 2026 last?
From the opening match to the final, WAFCON 2026 will run for 22 days. During that time, teams will play through the group stage before moving into the knockout rounds, ending with the final on Aug. 16.
Who is hosting WAFCON 2026?
Morocco will once again stage the tournament, making it the country’s third consecutive time hosting WAFCON, and fourth straight Africa Cup of Nations across both the men’s and women’s competitions.
Where is the next WAFCON being held?
Matches will be played across venues in Rabat and Casablanca, with the final set to take place in Rabat.
Which teams are playing at WAFCON 2026?
Sixteen nations will compete for the title, three of which are Arab. Keep scrolling for the full list of participating teams.
Algeria,
Burkina Faso
Cameroon
Cape Verde
Côte d’Ivoire
Egypt
Ghana
Kenya
Malawi
Mali
Morocco
Nigeria
Senegal
South Africa
Tanzania
Zambia
Who won the last edition of WAFCON?
Nigeria are the reigning champions. The Super Falcons came from behind to beat hosts Morocco 3-2 in the 2025 final, extending their record as the most successful team in WAFCON history with 10 titles.