WAFCON: Payne eyes back-to-back titles with Falcons in Morocco

As the TotalEnergies Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026 draws near in Morocco, the air is thick with anticipation and competitive spirit. Nigerian Super Falcons midfielder Toni Payne has unequivocally stated her team's objective: to clinch successive WAFCON titles. Payne's assertion underscores Nigeria's long-standing reputation as the 'Giants of Africa' in women's football, a status they are determined to uphold amidst growing continental competition. This ambition is particularly significant as the Copper Queens of Zambia, a rising force in African women's football, are also entering the tournament with high hopes, aiming to build on their historic third-place finish in the 2022 edition. The Super Falcons, with a rich history of dominance in African women's football, are not merely participating; they are arriving with a clear mandate to defend their championship. Toni Payne's comments reflect a deep-seated confidence within the squad, acknowledging the pressure that comes with their formidable legacy. Their journey in Morocco will be closely watched, especially by teams like Zambia, who have steadily closed the gap on traditional powerhouses. The tournament format, expanded to 16 teams for the first time, promises a more diverse and challenging competitive landscape, pushing every team to their limits. For Zambia, the WAFCON 2026 represents a pivotal moment to cement their status among Africa's elite. Under the guidance of head coach Nora Häuptle, the Copper Queens have developed a formidable attacking unit, featuring global stars like Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, whose exploits in international leagues have significantly elevated the team's profile. Their historic third-place finish in 2022, followed by a strong showing in 2024 where they reached the quarter-finals, demonstrates a consistent upward trajectory. The team's recent preparations, including warm-up friendlies, indicate a squad focused on tactical refinement and mental fortitude, ess