WAFCON favourite Nigeria eyes World Cup slot and record prize money

WAFCON favourite Nigeria eyes World Cup slot and record prize money as the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations gets underway in Morocco on Sunday. The tournament offers qualification for the World Cup and a record $2 million for the winner, with 16 teams competing, up from 12 at the previous edition. Nigeria, 10-time champions and defending title-holders, are described as the team to beat after winning their last final 3-2 versus Morocco despite trailing by two at halftime, with Jennifer Echegini scoring the decisive late goal. Coach Justine Madugu said the Falcons’ top goal is reaching the semifinals to secure one of four automatic World Cup berths reserved for Africa, alongside defending the trophy. Nigeria faces Zambia, Egypt and debutants Malawi in Group C, while hosts Morocco meet Algeria, Senegal and Kenya in Group A.