The delayed Women's Africa Cup of Nations 2026 kicks off in Morocco this Sunday, featuring an expanded 16-team lineup battling for continental glory and qualification for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil. Action opens in Rabat and Casablanca, running across 22 days before concluding with the final on August 16.
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Subscribe Sekarang →Originally scheduled for earlier in the year, the tournament faced a four-month delay following logistical challenges and venue adjustments by the Confederation of African Football. Matches will take place across five stadiums, with games relocated from Fez to consolidate the hosting duties in Rabat and Casablanca.
According to tournament organizers, all four semifinalists will automatically secure their spots at the 2027 World Cup, while losing quarterfinalists will head into playoff rounds for remaining inter-confederation slots. Reigning champions Nigeria remain the team to beat as the Super Falcons target a record-extending 11th continental title.
Star power will be on full display with world-class talent including Zambia's Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, alongside Malawi's dynamic Chawinga sisters, Tabitha and Temwa. Nigeria's Rasheedat Ajibade and host nation Morocco's Ghizlane Chebbak are also expected to headline the tournament.
Financial incentives have received a substantial boost, with the champion set to earn two million dollars, doubling the prize fund from the previous edition. While total prize money has risen to 5.8 million dollars, it continues to highlight the persistent pay gap compared to the men's tournament.