All Group C matches will take place at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, giving the Falcons a familiar North African backdrop—but this time with serious stakes and a rematch that could ignite the tournament early.
Nigeria, fresh off their record-extending 10th WAFCON title in 2025 (where they stunned hosts Morocco 3-2 in a dramatic comeback final after trailing 2-0), will be gunning for an unprecedented 11th crown. But this group is no walkover. Here's why it's already being called one of the toughest in the expanded 16-team format:
- Zambia (Copper Queens): The ultimate revenge game! Nigeria demolished Zambia 5-0 in the 2025 quarter-finals en route to glory. Barbara Banda and co. will be out for blood, and with Zambia's rise as one of Africa's emerging forces, expect a fierce, high-intensity battle. No one forgets a thrashing like that.
- Egypt (Lady Pharaohs): Returning after a long absence, Egypt bring technical discipline, organization, and a chip on their shoulder. They're no longer easy prey and could frustrate Nigeria's star-studded attack with compact defending and quick counters.
- Malawi (Scorchers): The underdogs with "nothing to lose." As the lowest-ranked side in the group, Malawi enter as potential banana skins—capable of springing surprises if the favorites slip up even once.
The Super Falcons boast legends like Asisat Oshoala, Rasheedat Ajibade, and rising talents, plus coach Justin Madugu's tactical nous (despite missing out on CAF Women's Coach of the Year). But complacency could be deadly in this competitive pool.
The bigger picture? WAFCON 2026 is massive: the four semi-finalists earn automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, with two more spots via intercontinental playoffs. Nigeria's mission is clear—top the group, reach the semis, and book that Brazil ticket while chasing continental immortality.
Full tournament groups for context:
- Group A (Rabat – Moulay Al Hassan Stadium): Morocco (hosts), Algeria, Senegal, Kenya
- Group B (Rabat – Al Madina Stadium): South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Tanzania
- Group C (Casablanca): Nigeria, Zambia, Egypt, Malawi
- Group D (Fès): Ghana, Cameroon, Mali, Cape Verde
Matches run from March 17 to April 3, 2026, across Rabat, Casablanca, and Fès. With the tournament expanded to 16 teams for the first time, the competition is fiercer than ever.
Nigerian fans, this draw screams drama—rematches, rising threats, and World Cup tickets on the line. Can the Super Falcons navigate the storm and defend their throne? Or will Zambia, Egypt, or Malawi pull off the upset of the tournament?
One thing's for sure: Group C is must-watch TV. The road to glory starts here—bring it on!