With the tournament expanded and the stakes higher than ever, here is everything you need to know about the draw that will shape the future of African football.
1. A History-Making Expansion: 16 Teams!
For the first time since the competition's inception, the WAFCON has expanded from 12 to 16 nations. This major shake-up means more matches, more drama, and a tougher road to the trophy. The expanded field now includes heavyweights who missed out on the initial qualifying rounds, like Cameroon and Côte d’Ivoire, making this the most competitive edition yet.
2. The Seeding Bombshell: Pot 1 "Untouchables"
CAF has confirmed the seeding based on the latest FIFA rankings, and the news is huge for the continent's powerhouses. The "Big Four" have been safely tucked away in Pot 1, meaning they are guaranteed to be separated in the group stages:
• Nigeria 🇳🇬 (Defending Champions & 1st Seed)
• South Africa 🇿🇦 (2nd Seed)
• Ghana 🇬🇭 (3rd Seed)
• Zambia 🇿🇲 (4th Seed)
This setup ensures that the Super Falcons, Banyana Banyana, Black Queens, and Copper Queens won't face each other until the knockout rounds.
3. Host Morocco: The Wildcard in Group A
As the host nation, Morocco automatically takes the top spot in Group A. However, because they are technically ranked lower than the top four seeds, they aren't in Pot 1. This creates a massive "Group of Death" possibility. Could we see a repeat of the 2024 rivalry? There is a very real chance that Zambia or South Africa could be drawn directly into Morocco’s group, setting up a heavyweight clash on the very first day!
Tournament Cheat Sheet
| Event | Details |
| Draw Date | Thursday, January 15, 2026 (1:00 PM GMT) |
| Location | Rabat, Morocco |
| Tournament Dates | March 17 – April 3, 2026 |
| What's at Stake? | WAFCON Trophy + 4 Direct Tickets to the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil |
Double the Glory: CAF Awards are Back!
In a surprise move, CAF announced that the draw ceremony will also host the delayed 2025 CAF Women’s Awards. Fans will finally find out who wins Women's Coach of the Year and Club of the Year, adding even more glitz and glamour to the event in Rabat.
With the 2027 World Cup in Brazil on the horizon, the four semi-finalists in Morocco will punch their tickets directly to the global stage. For the Super Falcons, the mission is clear: defend the crown and secure that flight to Brazil!