The first round of qualifiers for the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2026 has concluded, delivering a week of thrilling football action across the continent.
Algeria, Mali, Kenya, and a host of other nations have successfully navigated the initial stage, setting the stage for a dramatic second round.
From February 19 to 26, 2025, teams battled fiercely, showcasing their talent and determination in pursuit of a coveted spot in the continental tournament. The opening round proved to be a rigorous test, with several teams delivering standout performances.
Algeria emerged as a force to be reckoned with, securing a commanding 8-0 aggregate victory over South Sudan (5-0, 3-0).
Mali, powered by the prolific Agueicha Diarra, displayed their offensive prowess with a resounding 10-1 aggregate win against Gabon (6-0, 4-1).
Togo also impressed, overcoming Djibouti with a dominant 5-0 victory in the second leg, following a comfortable initial win.
Kenya, known for their solid defensive organization, eliminated Tunisia with a crucial 1-0 victory in the second leg after a goalless draw in the first.
Tanzania, inspired by Clara Luvanga, secured their progression with a 4-2 aggregate win over Equatorial Guinea (3-1, 1-1).
However, the biggest shock of the round came from Ethiopia, who stunned Uganda in a dramatic penalty shootout. After two thrilling 2-2 draws, Ethiopia prevailed 5-4 on penalties, sending shockwaves through the competition.
Other teams that successfully navigated the first round include The Gambia, DR Congo, Angola, Namibia, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, and Egypt.
The second round of qualifiers, scheduled for October 20-28, 2025, will see the entry of Africa’s top-seeded teams.
Nigeria, South Africa, Cameroon, Ghana, Zambia, and Cote d’Ivoire, all seasoned competitors in major continental tournaments, will join the fray.
The fixtures for the second round are as follows
* Angola vs Malawi
* DR Congo vs South Africa
* Tanzania vs Ethiopia
* Namibia vs Zambia
* Burkina Faso vs Togo
* Algeria vs Cameroon
* Egypt vs Ghana
* Kenya vs Gambia
* Benin vs Nigeria
* Cape Verde vs Mali
* Senegal vs Ivory Coast
