Nigeria eyes World Cup qualification and record prize money at 2026 Wafcon in Morocco
via The Namibian5 min read
The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Wafcon is set to begin in Morocco, featuring a record 16 nations competing for World Cup qualification spots and a US$2 million first prize. Nigeria, the 10-time title-holders and defending champions, are considered the team to beat. Their last victory saw them overcome a two-goal deficit against Morocco to win 3-2, with Jennifer Echegini scoring the late winner. Coach Justine Madugu stated that Nigeria's primary goal is to reach the semi-finals to secure one of Africa's four automatic World Cup berths, followed by defending their trophy. The squad includes a mix of experienced players and youth from various international clubs, though Ashleigh Plumptre is absent due to injury. Midfielder Rasheedat Ajibade will captain the team, which also features goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. Nigeria is in Group C with Zambia, Egypt, and debutants Malawi. Other contenders include South Africa in Group B and Morocco in Group A, who will face Algeria in a politically charged match. Group D includes Ghana, Cameroon, and newcomers Cape Verde. The tournament will host 34 games across three stadiums in Rabat and two in Casablanca, with play-off slots for the inter-continental World Cup also at stake.
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