The 2024 CAF TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) has reached the business end of the competition, with the quarterfinal line-up now confirmed.
Eight of Africa’s strongest national teams Nigeria, Zambia, Morocco, Mali, Ghana, Algeria, South Africa, and Senegal are ready to clash for a coveted spot in the semifinals.
Nigeria vs Zambia
Date: July 18, 2025 | Time: 18:00 | Venue: Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca
A mouthwatering opener sees nine-time champions Nigeria face off with Zambia, one of the continent’s rising powers.
The Super Falcons have demonstrated typical composure and defensive solidity throughout the group stage and enter the knockouts with a familiar mix of experience and expectation.
Super Falcons. Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
However, Zambia’s Copper Queens are far from overawed. They boast arguably the most dangerous attacking duo in the tournament: Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji.
Their clinical finishing and creative flair could cause real problems for Nigeria’s backline. This fixture also serves as a grudge match after Zambia edged Nigeria 1–0 in the 2022 third-place playoff.
Morocco vs Mali
Date: July 18, 2025 | Time: 21:00 | Venue: Stade Olympique, Rabat
Host nation Morocco topped their group with 7 points, displaying a blend of structure and spark, with Ghizlane Chebbak continuing to inspire in midfield. Backed by a passionate home crowd in Rabat, the Atlas Lionesses are dreaming of reaching a second consecutive final.
READ MORE: Nigeria’s Babajide signs for AS Roma after stellar season in Spain
But Mali arrive as determined underdogs. Strong in transition and relentless in duels, they possess the physical edge and mentality to unsettle any opponent.
A tight, tactical contest is expected, with Mali aiming to pull off an upset in front of a packed Stade Olympique.
Algeria vs Ghana
Date: July 19, 2025 | Time: 18:00 | Venue: Berkane Stadium, Berkane
Algeria have been the surprise story of the tournament so far, reaching the quarterfinals through compact defending and opportunistic attacking play. Under Farid Benstiti, they have punched above their weight and now aim to make history.
Photo Credit: CAF
Ghana, however, represent a significant step up in opposition. The Black Queens have the pedigree, power, and pace to dominate when needed.
With Evelyn Badu and Princella Adubea leading the line, they’ll look to assert control early and keep their title hopes alive after missing out on the semifinals in the last three editions.
South Africa vs Senegal
Date: July 19, 2025 | Time: 21:00 | Venue: Stade de l’Honneur, Oujda
South Africa, the defending champions, are still among the favourites, despite a mixed group stage that included a 1–1 draw against Tanzania.
Senegal team. Photo Credit: X
Led by the ever-reliable Refiloe Jane and Jermaine Seoposenwe, Banyana Banyana remain a well-drilled and dangerous side with the ability to switch gears.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL
Senegal are here on merit, qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams. Tactical discipline and fast breaks have been their trademarks, with Hapsatou Diallo proving influential in midfield. They’ll be banking on a high-intensity approach to slow down South Africa’s rhythm.
