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Wafcon 2026: Morocco challenges Algeria while Nigeria faces Zambia in the group draw
The Maghreb Derby Electrifies the Launch of Wafcon 2026
The excitement is rising in Rabat as the draw has been made for this new edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Morocco, the host country for the third consecutive time, is preparing for an intense moment starting from the group stage. The draw placed the Atlas Lionesses in Group A, where they will face their neighbor and historic rival, Algeria. This face-off goes beyond the purely sporting aspect to become the major attraction of the beginning of the tournament, promising packed stands and record viewership.
Beyond this regional showdown, the kingdom confirms its position as a hub of African football. The organization of this event, which will take place from Tuesday, March 17 to Friday, April 3, 2026, once again demonstrates the country’s ability to manage world-class infrastructures. Morocco’s group matches will be held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, a venue accustomed to major continental evenings.
A Group Stage Marked by Battles of Titans
While local eyes are on the Morocco-Algeria duel, another group draws attention from international observers. Nigeria, defending champion and dominant power on the continent, faced a complex draw in Group C. The Super Falcons will meet Zambia, a team they had crushed 5-0 in the previous edition before winning 2-1 against Morocco in the final. This group promises to be particularly competitive with the presence of Egypt and Malawi, which is making its debut in the competition.
To clarify the distribution of forces present, here are the details of the pools from this draw:
| Group | Stadium & City | Teams competing |
|---|---|---|
| 🏁 Group A | Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium (Rabat) | Morocco, Algeria, Senegal, Kenya |
| 🏟️ Group B | Al Medina Stadium (Rabat) | South Africa, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Tanzania |
| 🔥 Group C | Larbi Zaouli Stadium (Casablanca) | Nigeria, Zambia, Egypt, Malawi |
| ⚽ Group D | Fès Sports Complex | Ghana, Cameroon, Mali, Cape Verde |
Format Expansion and Increased Economic Stakes
This 2026 edition marks a structural turning point for the Confederation of African Football (CAF). By deciding to expand the format from 12 to 16 teams in the middle of the qualification phase, the governing body allowed nations like Cameroon and Ivory Coast to be reinstated thanks to their world ranking. This expansion implies reinforced logistics and optimal use of Moroccan infrastructures. The local economic impact is direct: hospitality, transport, and services will be operating at full capacity in the host cities.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe also emphasized the financial enhancement of women’s football. Although a huge gap remains – the male winner of the 2025 AFCON will pocket $10 million compared to $1 million for the reigning female champions – the stated goal is to significantly increase the prizes for this Wafcon 2026 as well as players’ salaries across the continent.
Here are the sports venues that will host these clashes, strategically distributed to maximize attendance:
- 📍 Rabat: Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium (Group A) and Al Medina Stadium (Group B).
- 📍 Casablanca: Larbi Zaouli Stadium, hosting the Nigeria-Zambia clash (Group C).
- 📍 Fès: Fès Sports Complex, host of Group D.
Moroccan Excellence Rewarded Before Kickoff
Even before the ball rolls, Moroccan women’s football has received prestigious distinctions, confirming the healthy state of the national sports sector. AS FAR, the emblematic club, was crowned club of the year after its victory in the Women’s Champions League. Individually, Sanaa Mssoudy, winger for AS FAR and the national team, was named interclub player of the year, while Lamia Boumehdi of TP Mazembe received the coach of the year award. These successes illustrate the growing professional structuring of the sports market in Morocco.
What are the qualification stakes for the World Cup?
The four semi-finalists of Wafcon 2026 will qualify directly for the 2027 Women’s World Cup. Teams losing in the quarter-finals will play playoffs to try to secure two additional spots via an intercontinental tournament.
Why was the competition schedule adjusted?
The 2026 edition comes only eight months after the 2024 tournament, which was delayed due to scheduling conflicts, notably with the Paris Olympic Games. The competition will take place over a slightly shorter period, from March 17 to April 3.
Which teams are making their debut in this competition?
This expanded 16-team edition allows new nations to emerge. Malawi, in Nigeria’s group, and Cape Verde, in Ghana’s group, will make their first appearance in a Wafcon final phase.
