The 15th edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations will be held in Morocco from July 5 to 26, bringing together the continent’s top 12 national teams. From the reigning champions South Africa to historic powerhouse Nigeria, expectations are high to see who will be crowned the new queen of African women’s football.

Here’s our power ranking of the participating teams based on their outlook for this edition. Do you agree with who’s at the top?

RANKING OF PARTICIPATING TEAMS

12. Tanzania
East Africa’s only representatives face a tough group with heavyweights like Ghana, Mali, and defending champions South Africa. While the women’s game is growing in Tanzania, they still seem a step behind at this level.

11. DR Congo
Returning to the tournament for the first time in nearly 15 years, the Congolese share a tough group with Morocco and Zambia. However, they boast top talent like Merveille Kanjinga, who signed with PSG after shining in the CAF Women’s Champions League.

10. Botswana
The lowest-ranked team according to FIFA. Still, they impressed in their last WAFCON appearance by reaching the knockout stage. Can they pull off another surprise?

9. Algeria
Coming off a 3–0 loss to Senegal in a pre-tournament friendly, doubts surround the team. However, with quality players like Ghoutia Karchouni and Laura Taleb Muller, they could fight for a spot in the quarterfinals.

8. Senegal
They’ll face hosts Morocco and DR Congo in the group stage. Led by Safietou Sagna and speedy forward Ndeye Awe Diakhate, they’ll be a tough opponent for anyone.

7. Mali
Coming in strong after eliminating Gabon in the qualifiers and holding Zambia to a draw in a friendly. Aïssata Traoré and PSG forward Agueicha Diarra are players to watch.

6. Tunisia
Despite a shock early elimination in the WAFCON 2026 qualifiers, Tunisia boasts key players like Mariem Houij, versatile Sabrine Ellouzi, and breakout starlet Salma Marzouki.

5. Ghana
Back in the mix after a seven-year absence, the Black Queens are eager to reclaim their spot among the elite. Coach Nora Hauptle restored belief, though her recent departure to Zambia could affect team cohesion.

4. Zambia
A mature and battle-tested side featuring global stars Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, both now in the NWSL. With Nora Hauptle now at the helm, Zambia is primed for a deep run.

3. South Africa
The reigning champions return with experience and depth. Without star forward Thembi Kgatlana, leadership will fall to Hildah Magaia, Jermaine Seoposenwe, and Linda Motlhalo.

2. Nigeria
The Super Falcons are determined to reclaim their crown after falling short in the 2022 semifinals. With elite talent like Asisat Oshoala, Francisca Ordega, Ifeoma Onumonu, and Toni Payne, they remain one of the most dangerous sides in Africa.

1. Morocco
The hosts come in on top form, powered by a golden generation featuring Ghizlane Chebbak, Fatima Tagnaout, and Ibtissam Jraïdi. Under the leadership of 2023 Women’s World Cup–winning coach Jorge Vilda, they’ll aim for their first-ever continental title cheered on by a passionate home crowd.

Who’s your favorite?

Talent, drama, and passion are guaranteed in this new edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. African women’s football is reaching new heights… Who will lift the trophy on July 26?