WAFCON 2024: Super Falcons drawn with familiar prey in Group B

The Super Falcons of Nigeria will seek a record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title at the 2025 tournament, set to take place in Morocco from July 5-26.

This edition marks the second consecutive time Morocco will host the competition, following their success in 2022. 

Drawn into Group B, Nigeria will face Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana, a group considered easy peasy for the nine-time champions.

Familiar group foes and likely rivals watch

Nigeria boasts a strong record against their group opponents. Botswana was in the same group during the 2022 WAFCON, with the Falcons securing a 2-0 victory thanks to Ifeoma Onumonu and Christy Ucheibe. 

Algeria, too, has struggled against Nigeria recently, losing 2-0 and 4-1 in friendly matches held in Ikenne and Lagos in 2024.

Elsewhere, hosts Morocco headline Group A, paired with Zambia, Senegal, and DR Congo. Defending champions South Africa anchor Group C alongside Ghana, Mali, and Tanzania.

Of the 12 tournaments held since 1998, Nigeria has won nine titles, Equatorial Guinea has claimed two, and South Africa took the crown in 2022.

Pre-tournament preparations for the 10th

Before the tournament, the Super Falcons will test their mettle against France in a friendly on November 30, 2024 at the Raymond Kopa Stadium, Angers. 

This match provides an opportunity for Justin Madugu’s side to measure their progress against a top European team and build confidence ahead of WAFCON.

The 2022 WAFCON proved challenging for Nigeria, as they unexpectedly finished fourth, falling to hosts Morocco in the semi-finals and suffering a third-place defeat to Zambia.

With a mix of experienced stars and emerging talents, Nigeria is poised to make a strong bid for their 10th WAFCON title, reassert their dominance in African women’s football.