The group stage battles have been fought, the standings decided, and now only eight teams remain in contention for Africa’s most prestigious women’s football crown. As the 2024 WAFCON tournament enters its knockout phase, the air in Morocco crackles with anticipation, each squad carrying not just their own dreams, but the hopes of entire nations.
In Casablanca, the historic Stade Larbi Zaouli prepares to host what promises to be the tournament’s most electrifying encounter. The Super Falcons of Nigeria, Africa’s most decorated team with nine titles to their name, square off against Zambia’s rising Copper Queens. The Nigerians move with the confidence of champions, their group stage performances showcasing both tactical discipline and attacking flair. Yet as they take to the pitch, they know the Zambians before them are no ordinary opponents.
Barbra Banda, Zambia’s talismanic captain, adjusts her armband as she leads her team out. Her eyes burn with determination, remembering their semifinal loss to these same Nigerians two years prior. Beside her, Racheal Kundananji bounces on her toes, the duo having already terrorized defenses with six goals between them in the group stage. Across the center circle, Nigeria’s veteran defender Onome Ebi meets Banda’s gaze, the 40-year-old warrior knowing that containing these speedy attackers may define her team’s tournament.
Meanwhile in Rabat, the evening air carries the scent of orange blossoms as host nation Morocco prepares for battle. The Atlas Lionesses, buoyed by Ghizlane Chebbak’s tournament-leading four goals, feel the weight of expectation from the packed stands. Their opponents, Mali’s indomitable Lionesses, stand firm, their stingy defense having conceded just once in three matches. The Moroccan drums beat louder as Chebbak steps up for an early free kick, the entire nation holding its breath.
Down in Berkane, Ghana’s Black Queens lace up for what they hope will be their long-awaited return to WAFCON’s final four. Evelyn Badu, their dynamic midfielder, whispers strategy to strike partner Princella Adubea as they study Algeria’s defensive setup. The Desert Foxes of Algeria, tournament underdogs, know this may be their best chance ever to reach the semifinals. Their coach’s final words ring in their ears: “Make them remember your names.”
As twilight falls over Oujda, defending champions South Africa take their positions with the quiet confidence of titleholders. Refiloe Jane marshals her midfield troops, while Hildah Magaia tests the Senegal fullback’s patience with her darting runs. But the Lionesses of Teranga stand resolute, their own star Nguenar Ndiaye having matched Chebbak’s four-goal tally. Senegal’s coach reminds his players, “They wear the crown, but we have the weapons to take it.”
Beyond the glory of continental supremacy, another prize looms large the four semifinalists will book automatic tickets to the 2026 FIFA Women’s World Cup. For Zambia, Mali, or Algeria, this represents a chance to make history with their first-ever qualification. For the established powers, it’s about maintaining their dominance on the global stage.
As the referees’ whistles prepare to sound across four Moroccan cities, the tournament reaches its crescendo. In dugouts, coaches clutch tactical boards with sweat-slicked palms. On benches, substitutes lean forward, ready to become heroes. In the stands, colorful banners flutter as voices rise in passionate song. This is WAFCON at its finest, where legends are born, dreams are realized, and the beautiful game writes its next unforgettable chapter.
Key Numbers to Watch:
9: Nigeria’s record WAFCON titles
4: World Cup qualification spots at stake
6: Combined goals by Zambia’s Banda & Kundananji
1: Goal conceded by Mali in group stage
40: Age of Nigeria’s inspirational captain Onome Ebi
The beautiful game in Africa has never shone brighter, and as these warriors take the field, one truth becomes clear: in the cauldron of knockout football, only the strongest, bravest, and most determined will survive to fight another day.
