Nigeria's Super Falcons Chase Record Prize at WAFCON

Nigeria's Super Falcons are heading to Morocco with their sights set on defending their championship title and claiming a record-breaking $2 million prize at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations starting Sunday.

The tournament marks a milestone for African women's football. For the first time, 16 nations will compete, up from just 12 at the previous edition, and the winner takes home double the prize money ever offered before.

Nigeria comes in as the team to beat after their stunning 2024 victory. Trailing Morocco 2-0 at halftime in the final, the Super Falcons stormed back with three second-half goals, including Jennifer Echegini's dramatic late winner for a 3-2 triumph.

Coach Justine Madugu knows what's at stake beyond the trophy. The top four teams automatically qualify for the World Cup, making every match critical for the continent's best players.

"Our first priority is reaching the semifinals and clinching one of four World Cup places reserved for Africa," Madugu told reporters. "Our second goal is to defend the trophy and bring it back to Nigeria."

The team brings together talent from across the globe. Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Echegini returns alongside teammates playing in Mexico, Israel, China, and top European leagues like England's Brighton & Hove Albion.

Nigeria captain Rasheedat Ajibade will lead a squad featuring Chiamaka Nnadozie, widely considered Africa's best goalkeeper. The 25-player roster mixes experienced champions with fresh talent hungry to make their mark.

The Ripple Effect

The tournament's expansion and doubled prize money reflects the explosive growth of women's football across Africa. More nations competing means more opportunities for young girls to dream of professional careers, and bigger prizes mean investing in training programs and youth development back home.

The competition promises drama beyond Nigeria's quest. Morocco hopes to finally win as hosts after falling in the previous two finals, while powerhouse Zambia brings Racheal Kundananji, whose transfer set a world record, and prolific scorer Barbra Banda.

Even newcomer Malawi arrives with star power in the Chawinga sisters, Tabitha and Temwa, both playing for top international clubs. Cape Verde's women hope to capture hearts like their men's team did at the 2026 World Cup.

The 34 matches across five stadiums in Rabat and Casablanca will showcase how far African women's football has come. With World Cup spots, record money, and continental pride on the line, every team has something precious to play for.

Nigeria may have won 10 of the 13 tournaments since 1998, but as Coach Madugu notes, everyone wants what the Falcons have now.