Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) kicks off with record prize pool

The 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) officially kicked off on Saturday, July 5th in Morocco, ushering in a new era for African women’s football with more visibility, higher stakes, and continental pride on the line. Originally postponed from last year, the 15th edition of the competition returns with $3.475 million in total prize money, a symbolic nod to the tournament’s growing stature.

The champions will take home $1 million, the runners-up will earn $500,000, and the third and fourth-placed teams will receive $350,000 and $300,000 respectively. This increase, introduced by CAF, reflects the growing investment and interest in women’s football across Africa.

New Trophy, New Energy: WAFCON 2025 Launches in Style

In keeping with the tournament’s fresh energy, CAF unveiled a new trophy ahead of the opening match. The upgraded Olympic Stadium in Rabat served as the stage for the curtain-raiser between host nation Morocco and Zambia’s Copper Queens — a rematch of two rising forces in African football.

Morocco, who reached the WAFCON final for the first time in 2022, will be hoping to go one better on home soil this time, while Zambia, fresh from a bronze medal finish after defeating Nigeria three years ago, are looking to establish themselves as a consistent contender on the continental stage.

The tournament will run until July 26, coinciding with the UEFA Women’s Euro, making July a blockbuster month for women’s football worldwide.

12 Teams, 1 Mission: To be crowned Queens of Africa

The 2025 WAFCON features 12 national teams, divided into three groups of four. The top two teams in each group will qualify automatically for the quarter-finals, alongside the two best third-placed finishers.

Every match carries significance, and the competitive depth in each group promises thrilling fixtures across the board. This year’s tournament will be closely watched, not only due to the increased prize money and visibility, but also as a barometer for African teams heading into future global competitions.

Nigeria’s Super Falcons Begin “Mission X” for 10th Title

Nigeria, the most successful nation in the tournament’s history with nine WAFCON titles, are on a mission to reclaim continental glory. After a semi-final exit in the previous edition, the Super Falcons return with renewed determination and a squad filled with experience and promising talent.

Placed in Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana, Nigeria opened their campaign against Tunisia on Sunday — a match they won convincingly 3-0.

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The squad is anchored by veteran striker Asisat Oshoala, a six-time CAF Women’s Footballer of the Year, and led by Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, whose leadership and versatility are crucial to Nigeria’s setup.

At the back, CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year Chiamaka Nnadozie provides a solid last line of defence, supported by defensive stalwarts Osinachi Ohale and Ashleigh Plumptre. Their presence ensures stability against any attacking threats the Falcons may face in the tournament.

The midfield and flanks are driven by rising stars such as Tosin Demehin, Michelle Alozie, Miracle Usani, Sikiratu Isah, and Deborah Abiodun — names that represent the future of Nigerian women’s football.

Confidence Boost: Nigeria’s Positive Form Heading In

Coach Justin Madugu can take heart from Nigeria’s impressive pre-WAFCON form. The Super Falcons recorded wins over Ghana and Cameroon, and held European powerhouse Portugal to a draw in a tough friendly series leading up to the tournament. The performances not only lifted team morale but demonstrated Nigeria’s readiness to compete at the highest level.

Can Nigeria cement their legacy with Title No. 10?

While South Africa, the defending champions, and Morocco, the rising hosts, are strong contenders, Nigeria’s pedigree and momentum make them firm favourites to lift the trophy once again.

But the path to glory won’t be easy. The Super Falcons will need to blend discipline, resilience, and clinical execution to outclass Africa’s finest. If successful, “Mission X” — their 10th WAFCON title — will not just affirm their dominance, but also inspire the next generation of African women footballers.

Tournament Snapshot:

• Host: Morocco
• Dates: July 5–26, 2025
• Prize Pool: $3.475 million
• Champions Prize: $1 million
• Groups: 3 (12 teams)
• Nigeria’s Group: Group B (Nigeria, Tunisia, Algeria, Botswana)
• Next Match: Nigeria vs Algeria – July 10, 2025

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