Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses begin their quest for Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) glory on home soil with a mouth-watering opening clash against Zambia — a team they famously routed 5-0 at last year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup under the same coach, Jorge Vilda.

Returning as runners-up from the 2022 edition, Morocco head into this year’s tournament with confidence, momentum, and a determination to go one step further.

That 2022 campaign marked their best-ever finish in the competition, after group-stage exits in their only previous appearances in 1998 and 2000.

The Lionesses’ overall WAFCON record stands at P12 W5 D2 L5, with all five wins coming on home soil during their breakout 2022 run.

Before then, they had won just once in six matches—against Egypt in 1998. But with a new generation of talent and a world champion tactician at the helm, Morocco now stand as genuine title contenders.

Clean sheets have historically been rare for Morocco, with just three in 12 matches, including the narrow 1-0 victories over Burkina Faso and Senegal in 2022.

Defensively improved and tactically sharper under Vilda, the team will be aiming for a disciplined performance against Zambia’s high-flying attack.

Star forward Ghizlane Chebbak remains key to Morocco’s ambitions. She scored in all three group-stage games in 2022, finishing with three goals—the most by a Moroccan at a single WAFCON—and will be looked upon again to deliver in front of a passionate home crowd.

Head coach Jorge Vilda, who famously guided Spain to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup title, brings pedigree, tactical acumen, and valuable big-stage experience.

Notably, he led Spain to a 5-0 group-stage victory over Zambia at that tournament—a psychological edge the Moroccan squad may draw from in this opening showdown.

Facing a Zambian team buoyed by recent continental success and offensive firepower, Morocco know they will be tested.

But with home support behind them and redemption within reach, the Atlas Lionesses are ready to roar into WAFCON 2024 with purpose and pride.

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BY KUNLE SOLAJA.

As the 2024 edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) kicks off in Morocco, Nigeria’s Super Falcons have more than just their 10th continental title in sight—they are also in the running for significantly enhanced prize money.

The Confédération of African Football (CAF) has announced a 100% increase in the winner’s purse and a 45% overall boost in the total prize pool for the competition, reflecting its commitment to the growth of women’s football on the continent.

CAF President, Dr. Patrice Motsepe, said the decision aligns with the organisation’s broader goal of raising the standard and visibility of women’s football across Africa.

“CAF is continuing with its commitment to the development and growth of women’s football in Africa,” said Motsepe.

 “The 100% increase in the prize money for the winner of WAFCON Morocco 2024 and the 45% total increase in the prize money of the competition should contribute to improving the salaries of women football players, coaches, and other employees.”

Motsepe praised the rising quality and global competitiveness of African women’s football, adding: “We are excited about the substantial increase in the number of fans, broadcasting viewers, and sponsors for this year’s tournament. WAFCON Morocco 2024 is going to be enormously successful.”

According to the revised prize structure, participating teams stand to earn the following:

• Winner: $1,000,000
• Runner-up: $500,000
• Third place: $350,000
• Fourth place: $300,000
• Quarter-finalists (4 teams): $200,000 each
• Third in group stage: $150,000
• Fourth in group stage (3 teams): $125,000 each

Total prize money: $3,475,000

Nigeria’s Super Falcons, the most successful team in WAFCON history with nine titles from the previous 12 editions, are among the favourites in Morocco.

With this increase in prize money, the stakes are higher than ever—not just for glory, but for tangible rewards that could transform the future of women’s football in Nigeria and across the continent.

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As the countdown begins to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2024, a new generation of young talents is preparing to take centre stage. Among them, Nigeria’s dynamic midfielder Deborah Abiodun stands out as one of five rising stars tipped to set the tournament ablaze, with energy, skill, and ambition.

Though still only 21, Abiodun is no stranger to the international spotlight.

 Nicknamed “Kanté” for her tireless work rate and all-action midfield style, the Dallas Trinity FC player is quickly becoming a cornerstone of the Super Falcons.

First selected for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup by then-coach Randy Waldrum, her recall by current head coach Justin Madugu for this year’s WAFCON underscores her growing influence in a traditionally experienced Nigerian squad.

A product of the Rivers Angels’ tough, physical footballing school, Abiodun brings more than just energy.

Her ability to anticipate play, direct tempo, and distribute with precision makes her central to Nigeria’s ambitions.

At WAFCON 2024, she will be tasked with breaking down opposition attacks and launching quick transitions—responsibilities she embraces with youthful confidence and composure.

Joining Abiodun in the spotlight are four other young talents from across the continent, each determined to make their mark on the biggest stage for women’s football in Africa.

Comfort Yeboah (18, Defender, Ampem Darkoa – Ghana)
At just 18, Yeboah has already shown the makings of a seasoned leader.

Unveiled during the 2023 CAF Women’s Champions League, she impressed as a commanding presence in Ampem Darkoa’s backline.

Equally comfortable defending and initiating play, her ability to take penalties under pressure highlights her calmness and leadership qualities.

In a youthful and ambitious Ghanaian squad, Yeboah could prove to be the defensive lynchpin.

Jessica Modise (19, Forward, Gaborone United – Botswana)
Fast, fearless, and fiercely intelligent on the ball, Modise has emerged as the face of Botswana’s new footballing generation.

With five goals in the WAFCON qualifiers, she’s already shown her ability to lead from the front. Her hybrid role as both scorer and creator makes her one of the tournament’s most unpredictable threats.

Salma Marzouki (17, Midfielder, Banque de l’Habitat – Tunisia)
Though still a teenager, Marzouki is Tunisia’s midfield metronome.

Whether anchoring the midfield or linking up play, her calm demeanour and long-range shooting ability set her apart.

With maturity beyond her years, she will be central to Tunisia’s push to make history at this edition of the tournament.

Ruth Bulala Nossa (21, Midfielder, Sarcelles – DR Congo)
Described as one of the tournament’s best-kept secrets, Nossa was discovered by DR Congo coach Hervé Happy during international scouting efforts.

Now plying her trade in France, she combines tactical intelligence with physical prowess.

Her vision and game control could be decisive in tight contests, especially for a DR Congo side hoping to surprise the continent.

As these five rising stars prepare to step into the spotlight in Morocco, all eyes will be on how they handle the pressure—and perhaps redefine the future of women’s football on the continent. For Nigeria’s Abiodun and her fellow young guns, WAFCON 2024 isn’t just a tournament—it’s an opportunity to lead a generational shift.

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