WAFCON favourites Nigeria eye World Cup slot, record prize money

The highly anticipated 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) officially kicked off in Morocco on Sunday, marking the beginning of a fierce continental battle for football supremacy, coveted FIFA Women's World Cup qualification berths, and an unprecedented prize fund. For the first time in its history, the tournament's champion will walk away with a record-breaking two million US dollars, significantly elevating the stakes for the 16 participating nations. This financial incentive, coupled with the prestige of continental glory and a ticket to the global stage, ensures a compelling spectacle for fans across Africa and beyond. Among the continent's elite vying for these honours are Zambia's Copper Queens, who enter the tournament with high expectations and a determined spirit. Drawn into a challenging Group C, the Copper Queens will face formidable opponents in ten-time champions Nigeria, alongside Egypt and Malawi. This group promises intense competition, with Zambia—a nation increasingly recognized for its rising prowess in women's football—aiming to make a significant impact. The team's journey to Morocco has been meticulously planned, including recent warm-up matches against Algeria, demonstrating their readiness for the demanding schedule ahead. Zambia's participation in WAFCON 2026 is particularly significant given their recent history of breaking barriers in women's football. The Copper Queens made history by qualifying for their first-ever FIFA Women's World Cup in 2023, becoming the first landlocked African nation to achieve this feat. Their third-place finish at the 2022 WAFCON secured that historic World Cup appearance, showcasing their potential on the continental stage. Under the guidance of head coach Nora Häuptle, who took charge in 2025, the team has continued to evolve, blending tactical discipline with their inherent attacking flair, spearheaded by star players like Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji. The tournament structure sees the 16-na