What we learned from Wafcon 2026

What the report says

BBC Sport Africa’s review of Wafcon 2026 says the tournament in Morocco produced a more competitive and eventful edition, even though it was postponed shortly before kick-off. Cameroon were the standout story: after entering the expanded 16-team field via ranking rather than qualification, they went on to win the title and become only the fourth nation to lift the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations trophy. Malawi also emerged as surprise finalists, while all four semi-finalists secured places at the 2027 Fifa Women’s World Cup.

The report highlights how expansion to 16 teams appeared to raise the standard and create more balanced contests. It points to upsets such as Tanzania’s win over South Africa, Malawi’s run past Nigeria, Ghana and Algeria, and the broader increase in goals and competitiveness. BBC Sport Africa also notes that more high-level matches could support women’s football development across the continent.

The tournament also brought a landmark for women coaches, with Cameroon’s Valentine Nguele becoming only the fifth female coach to win Wafcon. Her success came after taking charge only months before the finals, underlining Cameroon’s rapid turnaround.

At the same time, the article says the event exposed ongoing problems, including poor attendances for matches not involving hosts Morocco, delays linked to video review, and questions over the long-term hosting calendar. It also flags Nigeria’s shock exit and failure to reach the 2027 World Cup, suggesting a possible shift in power in African women’s football.