Seven stars to watch for in the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations and why

According toSports.

Background

AFC Toronto striker Esther Okronkwa is one of the standout stars of the tournament, having contributed significantly to Nigeria's 10th title. Meanwhile, Malawi's Tabitha Chawenga is one of the top strikers in the Champions League, making her a key player to watch in this tournament.

Why is this important?

The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations is a pivotal event in women's football, with Nigeria defending its title against Morocco, who are hosting the tournament for the third time. This tournament is not only an opportunity for teams to compete for the title, but also to secure a place in the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil, which increases the importance of individual and team performance.

Key points

• Seven stars to watch for in the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations and why.
• The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations begins with Nigeria defending its title, with Morocco hosting the tournament for the third time in a row. Here are the top players to follow in this important event.
• Seven stars to watch at Wafcon 2026 and why.

The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) begins on Sunday, with Nigeria defending its title. Morocco is hosting the tournament for the third time in a row, as the Atlas Lions seek to achieve the title for the first time after losing in successive finals on home soil. This tournament carries extra significance, as four semi-finalists will qualify for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil. Here we look at seven players to watch during the tournament.

Esther Okronkwa (Nigeria)

AFC Toronto striker Esther Okronkwa was an inspiration as her country won its 10th title last year, scoring two goals and providing six assists. Having been a regular since the quarter-finals, Okronkwa combined creativity and precision in her finishing. In the final against the host country, Okronkwa scored a crucial penalty kick that sparked a comeback for her team from 2-0 down. Despite her influence, she was snubbed at last year's CAF Awards, which may give her extra incentive to show her abilities at the major event.

Tabitha Chawinga (Malawi)

Tabitha Chawinga scored 11 goals for Lyon, but saw her team lose in the Women's Champions League final. Chawinga, who represents Malawi, is the team's main threat, having helped her club win a fifth successive French League title. In 2023, she became the first Malawian woman to play and score in the Champions League. She is expected to participate in the attack with her younger sister, Temwa, in a tough group that includes Nigeria, Zambia and Egypt.

Ghazlan Shebbak (Morocco)

Last November, Ghizlane Shebak became the first Moroccan to be named the best female footballer in Africa. Will this be her last chance to lift the trophy? She scored the first goal against Nigeria in the final last year, but Morocco settled for the silver medals. She won the Golden Boot after scoring five goals, and aims to achieve a new achievement in the tournament.

Lillian Oror (Kenya)

Lilian Orwoor produced an outstanding performance in the qualifiers, helping Kenya return to Wafcon after a 10-year absence. Her performance as a goalkeeper will be crucial if Kenya are to pull off an upset and reach the knockout stages. She played a vital role in Kenya's qualifiers, saving two penalty kicks in the second round of qualifiers.

Nadine Ghazi (Egypt)

Nadine Ghazi was just 14 years old when she represented Egypt at Wafcon in 2016. After ten years of experience, Ghazi, who suffered a cruciate ligament injury, is seeking to regain her form. She hopes to inspire her women's team through the experience of the Egyptian men's team in the World Cup.

Reveal Jane (South Africa)

Refilwe Jane is a key leader in the South African national team, and she is looking to help her team regain the title they won for the first time in 2022. Her words reflect the increasing challenges in the tournament this year, as she hopes her team will reach the semi-finals again.

Varsina da Luz (Cape Verde)

Varsina da Luz, who has led her team since 2020, represents one of the new teams in the tournament. She has great support from a team made up entirely of part-time female players, and she scored crucial goals in the qualifiers.

This tournament is a great opportunity for female players to showcase their skills on the African and international stage, as they look to achieve success and qualify for the next World Cup.

What's next?

As the tournament gets underway, all eyes will be on key players such as Esther Okronkwa and Tabitha Chawinga, who can have a major impact on their teams' results. The performance of these stars may also affect the next season in Liga Pro Femenina, as this tournament could open the doors to new transfers or reinforcements for clubs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations start?

The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations begins on Sunday.

Who will host the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations?

Morocco is hosting the tournament for the third time in a row.

What is the importance of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations?

Four semi-finalists will qualify for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil.

Who are the key players to watch in the tournament?

The key players are Esther Okronkwa, Tabitha Chawinga, Ghizlan Shabak, Lilian Oror, and others.

Which teams are participating in the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations?

Participating teams include Nigeria, Morocco, Malawi, Kenya, Egypt, and South Africa.

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