WAFCON Group B Preview: Nigeria Lead the Chase as Underdogs Eye Upsets
The TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) kicks off this Saturday, with South Africa seeking to defend their title from 2022. In Group B, perennial favorites Nigeria headline the competition, but challengers Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana are poised to create potential upsets.
Nigeria
– Coach: Justine Madugu
– Best Finish: Winners (1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2016, 2018)
Nigeria boasts a record nine WAFCON titles, with their last championship in 2018. The team is led by key players such as Asisat Oshoala, a six-time CAF Women’s Footballer of the Year, and Toni Payne, who recently had a strong season with Everton. Ashleigh Plumptre adds experience in defense, and Nigeria is expected to reclaim their title after a disappointing performance in 2022.
Tunisia
– Coach: Kamel Saada
– Best Finish: Quarterfinals (2022)
Tunisia makes their third appearance at the finals, hoping to build on their quarterfinal run in 2022. Key players include midfielder Sana Guermazi and experienced goalkeeper Soulayma Jebrani. Tunisia aims to make the most of this opportunity, but they may lack the firepower to go deep into the tournament.
Algeria
– Coach: Farid Benstiti
– Best Finish: Group Stages (2004, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018)
Algeria has yet to progress beyond the group stages in five previous WAFCON appearances. With veteran forward Naïma Bouhani and goalkeeper Chloé N’Gazi, Algeria is showing signs of improvement. They have recent friendly wins and should aim for at least the quarterfinals.
Botswana
– Coach: Alex Malete
– Best Finish: Quarterfinals (2022)
Botswana made a strong debut in 2022, reaching the quarterfinals. With players like goalkeeper Sedilame Boseja and forward Refilwe Tholakele, they are looking to cause surprises again. Although they won’t be at the next WAFCON, they remain competitive and could make the knockout rounds.
