Finalists confirmed for 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco
The stage is set for the 2024 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, with all 12 participating teams confirmed after a thrilling final round of qualifiers on Tuesday.
Heavyweights Headline the Show
Nine-time champions Nigeria and hosts Morocco lead a challenging field packed with renowned continental powerhouses. Reigning title holders South Africa and three-time finalists Ghana, returning after a six-year absence, add to the star power. North African forces Algeria and Tunisia join Mali, while Senegal, giant-killers Zambia, Tanzania, and Botswana complete the exciting mix.
Dramatic Qualifiers and Two Major Comebacks
Two major comebacks marked the qualifiers. DR Congo, last seen in the competition in 2012, secured their place with a 3-2 aggregate victory over Equatorial Guinea. Ghana also made a triumphant return after a six-year absence.
Record-Breaking Attendance and Audience
The 2022 WAFCON final between Morocco and South Africa set a new attendance record, with 50,000 fans witnessing the match. The upcoming edition hosted by Morocco promises to build on this success, with ambitious teams and renowned players set to compete.
Road to the Finals
South Africa, seeking to defend their title, displayed resilience in their qualifying match against Burkina Faso. Algeria secured a 1-0 win over Burundi, marking their return to the competition after missing out in 2022.
Botswana Earns Historic Qualification
Botswana earned qualification by defeating Kenya 1-0, achieving a historic first for the nation. Nigeria and Zambia also secured their places with dominant aggregate victories.
Morocco Aims for Maiden Title
Having secured the hosting rights, Morocco now hopes to seize their maiden WAFCON title at the fifth attempt next July, furthering the development of women’s football in the nation.
Qualified Nations:
- Morocco (Hosts)
- Algeria
- Botswana
- DR Congo
- Ghana
- Mali
- Nigeria
- Senegal
- South Africa
- Tanzania
- Tunisia
- Zambia