The 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations is being played in five Moroccan cities. Twelve nations seek glory, but only five show firm signs of title readiness.
Nigeria, South Africa, Morocco, Zambia, and Ghana have set themselves apart through recent results, squad strength, and consistency on the continental and global stage.
Nigeria
The Super Falcons of Nigeria began with a confident 3-0 win against Tunisia. They passed accurately, pressed high, and created more chances.
Asisat Oshoala leads. Rinsola Babajide and Chinwendu Ihezuo offer width, strength, and attacking support. Their positioning stretches defenses and opens space.
Although Nigeria holds a record eleven titles, the last came in 2018. That long wait has renewed their urgency. Group B matches offer a path to grow into the tournament steadily.
Moreover, experience runs through the squad. Almost every player has been at this level before. Nigeria looks balanced and technically sound. They appear focused on restoring their dominance.
Tactically, the Super Falcons rely on high pressing and controlled possession. They adapt quickly and recover shape well. Their current form makes them strong contenders.
South Africa
South Africa defeated Ghana 2-0 in their first game, despite Thembi Kgatlana’s absence. Jermaine Seoposenwe directed play smartly.
Defensively, Kaylin Swart provided assurance. Her organisation kept Ghana from getting comfortable. South Africa remains composed and alert in transition moments.
In addition, their status as defending champions brings valuable experience. Their mental toughness gives them an edge.
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Also, the tactical shape remains solid. They combine short passes with sudden vertical movements. Their structure helps limit errors and control spaces.
South Africa does not rely on individual brilliance. Their strength lies in system, discipline, and belief. That cohesion makes them a top-tier threat.
Morocco
Morocco held Zambia to a 2-2 draw. Their attack looked sharp, but the defense wavered under pressure. Still, they showed promise, particularly in transition.
Ghizlane Chebbak and Fatima Tagnaout remain their creative pillars. They read space well and supply quick passes. Their link-up play opens scoring chances.
Playing on home soil gives a significant boost. Rabat and Casablanca crowds bring energy and expectation. Home support may push Morocco deeper into the tournament.
In 2022, they reached the final. That experience raised their standard. Now, they return with ambition and deeper squad depth.
Though defensive lapses remain, their attacking flow gives them hope. If they fix gaps in the back line, they could reach the semifinals again.
Zambia
Zambia matched Morocco in speed and intensity. Barbra Banda netted twice and looked sharp throughout. She formed a dynamic link with Rachael Kundananji.
Zambia plays direct football with a high tempo. They press early and attack wide. Their transitions unsettle defensive lines.
They finished third in 2022 and impressed globally at the last World Cup. That exposure brought maturity and better match handling.
Their confidence grows with each outing. They now aim not just to participate, but to win. The team shows belief and urgency.
Even though their defense remains under test, the attack compensates with energy. Their forward line can change matches within minutes.
Ghana
Ghana fell 2-0 to South Africa but showed sparks of quality. Evelyn Badu and Doris Boaduwaa create sharp movement and passing vision in midfield.
Princess Marfo helped link defense and attack. She read plays early and intercepted key passes. The team showed glimpses of control.
Although Ghana hasn’t lifted the title, they’ve reached the final three times. That legacy adds belief, even after a rough start.
A win in the next match could spark a turnaround. The team must stay focused and avoid costly errors. Their hopes remain alive.
Ghana possesses talent. If they regain strength, they can still reach the latter stages. They should not be ruled out.
Conclusively, WAFCON 2025 has begun. Nigeria and South Africa lead through consistency and squad depth.
Morocco enjoys home support, while Zambia’s energy poses a major threat. Ghana remains in contention with a need to respond quickly.
Every match ahead will proof brilliance and mental strength. Only the team that stays sharp, focused, and tactically clear will lift the trophy on July 26.
