All you need to know about Wafcon 2026

The highly anticipated 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) is poised to ignite the continent's football passion, with Morocco hosting the prestigious tournament for an unprecedented third consecutive time. The competition, which was initially delayed, is now scheduled to commence on July 26th and culminate in the grand final on August 16th. This edition marks a significant expansion, featuring 16 national teams, up from the previous 12, reflecting the growing prominence and investment in women's football across Africa. Matches will be played across various stadiums in Moroccan cities, including Rabat, Casablanca, and Fez. For Zambia, the tournament holds immense significance as the Copper Queens, the nation's beloved women's national football team, are set to compete. They find themselves in a formidable Group C, alongside perennial powerhouses and defending champions Nigeria, as well as Egypt and fellow Southern African nation Malawi. This grouping promises thrilling encounters and a rigorous test for the Zambian squad, who have steadily risen in stature on the continental and global stages in recent years. The expanded format ensures more competitive fixtures and a broader platform for African talent to shine. Beyond the quest for continental supremacy, WAFCON 2026 carries the added weight of being a critical qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil. The four semi-finalists will automatically secure their spots in the global showpiece, while two additional nations will have a chance to qualify through inter-confederation playoffs. This direct link to the World Cup amplifies the stakes for every match, transforming each encounter into a battle not just for WAFCON glory, but for a place on the world stage. The Copper Queens, known for their resilience and attacking flair, will be looking to leverage their recent experiences, including their historic qualification for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, to make a deep run in the tou