The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has expanded the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) from 12 to 16 teams, starting with the 2026 edition in Morocco.
This new development is indicative of the progress and inclusivity of women’s football across Africa.
This decision was made formal at the CAF Executive Committee (EXCO) meeting which was held early last month in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In a letter sent to all member associations on 3 November 2025, a confirmation a 16 team WAFCON was explained.
However, the confirmation comes after the qualification phase for the 2026 tournament had already concluded.
The Association therefore included 4 other teams who couldn’t qualify based on the second round of qualifiers but are ranked higher on the current FIFA rankings.
As a result, Cameroon (ranked 66th) Ivory Coast (71st), Mali (79th), and Egypt (95th) have all been handed a lifeline and will join the 12 teams that had already secured qualification.
The tournament will for the first time host 16 countries in Morocco