The 13th edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) officially kicks off on Saturday, 5 July 2025, in Morocco.
With all 12 qualified teams having prior tournament experience, this edition is set to be one of the most fiercely contested and historically significant competitions in the tournament’s history.
Mission X: Nigeria Targets Redemption and Tenth Title
Nine-time champions Nigeria head to Morocco with a clear mission—reclaim the throne and restore their dominance on the continent.
Branded “Mission X,” the Super Falcons seek to avenge their semi-final exit in the 2022 edition, where they were narrowly defeated by hosts Morocco in a penalty shootout (1-1, 5-4).
The disappointment still lingers, and now, with pride and pedigree at stake, the Nigerian team is more determined than ever.
Under the leadership of head coach Justin Madugu, the Super Falcons boast a blend of world-class talent and experience.
Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie anchors the defence, with Rasheedat Ajibade and Toni Payne controlling the midfield, while five-time African Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala leads the attack.
South Africa: Defending the Crown
Champions in 2022, South Africa return to defend their title with elevated expectations.
After years of near-misses, Banyana Banyana finally claimed their first WAFCON trophy in Rabat, cementing coach Desiree Ellis’s status as a national hero.
The likes of Hildah Magaia, Jermaine Seoposenwe and Andile Dlamini were instrumental in that historic success.
Now, the reigning champions face a new challenge—maintaining their grip on the trophy. “We’re not taking anything for granted as defending champions,” warned goalkeeper Dlamini following the tournament draw.
The South Africans are tasked with integrating emerging talent into their core group while withstanding the pressure of being the team to beat.
Morocco: Hungry for Home Glory
WAFCON 2022 was a breakthrough for Morocco, as the Atlas Lionesses reached the final—an unprecedented feat for a North African team.
Spear headed by Ghizlane Chebbak, the hosts captured the imagination of fans, with record-breaking attendances at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
In 2025, Morocco returns with greater ambition. With former FIFA Women’s World Cup-winning coach Jorge Vilda now at the helm, the team is eyeing more than just a repeat performance—they want the title.
The squad is bolstered by the professionalisation of the domestic league, consistent performances in CAF inter-club competitions, and a passionate home crowd.
No Debutants, Only Contenders
For the first time in WAFCON history, there are no debutant nations. Every participating team has prior experience and arrives in Morocco with the intent to challenge.
DR Congo returns after 13 years, inspired by young standout Merveille Kanjinga. Zambia, semi-finalists in 2022 and World Cup participants, are riding high with captain Barbra Banda leading their golden generation.
Botswana, the surprise package last time, now come seasoned and tactically refined under coach Alex Malete.
Senegal, making back-to-back appearances, is targeting the quarter-finals. Tunisia, consistent through qualifiers, dreams of a first semi-final.
Ghana, a traditional powerhouse absent in 2022, is back to reclaim its status, while CECAFA representatives Tanzania continue to punch above their weight.
Rising Stakes, Fierce Rivalries
With increased prize money announced by CAF and a level playing field devoid of newcomers, WAFCON 2024 promises heightened intensity, tactical evolution, and world-class football.
Referees like Rwanda’s Salima Mukansanga, South Africa’s Andile Dlamini, and Morocco’s Bouchra Karboubi Laassiri will play key roles in officiating what is expected to be a tightly contested tournament.
The continent is ready. The players are ready. And Nigeria, fueled by history and hunger, is ready to begin its mission.
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