Casablanca, Morocco – July 2024
The highly anticipated 2024 edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) kicked off in dramatic fashion, captivating fans across the continent and beyond with stunning goals, underdog grit, and emotional triumphs.
Held once again in Morocco, this year’s tournament has drawn record crowds and unprecedented global attention, as women’s football continues to soar in popularity across Africa.
The opening match saw the host nation, Morocco, edge past debutants Rwanda in a nail-biting 2–1 victory. The crowd erupted when star striker Salma Amani netted a late winner in stoppage time, sending the Atlas Lionesses top of Group A.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Super Falcons, the tournament favorites and 11-time champions, made a bold statement with a 4–0 demolition of Botswana, thanks to a brace by Asisat Oshoala.
“We came to remind everyone who we are,” said Oshoala after the match. “This isn’t just about titles—it’s about pride, legacy, and breaking barriers for women in African sports.”
Elsewhere, the South African Banyana Banyana overcame a tough challenge from Cameroon, winning 3–2 in one of the tournament’s most intense opening clashes.
The atmosphere in the stadiums has been electric, with fans draped in flags, chanting national anthems, and proudly waving banners that read “She Belongs on the Pitch.”
Beyond the drama on the field, this year’s WAFCON carries symbolic weight. Organizers have focused heavily on visibility, equality, and investment in the women’s game, with sponsorships from leading African brands and live broadcasts in over 40 countries.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe lauded the event’s energy: “This is more than a football tournament—it’s a celebration of African excellence, resilience, and the future of sport on our continent.”
As group-stage action continues, eyes are on surprise teams like Senegal and Burundi, both looking to make history in their WAFCON campaigns.
With weeks of action still to unfold, one thing is clear: Africa’s women footballers are not just participating—they are commanding the stage.