CAF Plans Expand Women’s Africa Cup Nations to 16 Teams from 2026

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced that the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) will expand from 12 to 16 teams starting with the 2026 edition in Morocco, reflecting a significant step in the growth of women’s football on the continent. This expansion, the third in WAFCON history, follows the tournament's progression from eight teams originally to 12 in 2022, and is expected to require a new preliminary round where 11 nations will compete for four additional slots. The 2026 WAFCON will also serve as the African qualifying tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, with the top four teams earning qualification. CAF has increased its investment in the women's game, including a 45% rise in prize money to $3.45 million at the most recent tournament, with Nigeria, the defending champions and record 10-time winners, receiving $1 million. CAF President Patrice Motsepe praised the progress made, emphasizing CAF's commitment to ensuring both men and women are well paid and can make careers in football, with a continued focus on improving women's football in Africa. Further details on qualification and tournament structure are expected following CAF's Executive Committee meeting in Kinshasa.