Nigeria's Super Falcons will begin the defence of their Women's Africa Cup of Nations title this week in Morocco, aiming to extend their dominance by winning a record 11th continental championship.
The 2026 WAFCON, which starts on Sunday and runs until 16th of August 2026, is the first edition to feature 16 teams.
The four semi-finalists will also qualify automatically for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.
The Super Falcons, who have won 10 WAFCON titles, are in Group C alongside Malawi, Algeria and Botswana.
They open their campaign against Malawi on Tuesday before facing Botswana and Algeria in their remaining group matches.
Head coach Justine Madugu has named an experienced squad led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade.
The team also includes six-time CAF Women's Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defender Michelle Alozie and midfielder Christy Ucheibe.
Defender Ashleigh Plumptre will miss the tournament because of a foot injury.
The Falcons held a week-long training camp in Casablanca, Morocco as part of their final preparations.
The camp, according to the Nigeria Football Federation, was designed to "fine-tune tactics, improve team chemistry and prepare the players physically" before the tournament.
CAF said the expanded competition marks "a significant milestone in the history of the competition," adding that the increase from 12 to 16 teams is part of a broader plan to strengthen women's football across Africa.
Nigeria enter the tournament as favourites after lifting their 10th title in the last edition.
However, they are expected to face strong competition from hosts Morocco, South Africa and Zambia.
Beyond defending their African title, the Super Falcons are also chasing an early ticket to the 2027 Women's World Cup, making another successful WAFCON campaign even more important.
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