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After a thrilling group stage featuring 45 goals, shocking upsets, and standout performances, the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) enters its high-stakes knockout phase. The quarter-finals kick off today in Morocco, as eight of the continent’s top teams battle for supremacy, glory, and qualification for the upcoming global championships.
With no team sweeping all their group matches and several underdogs rising, this year’s WAFCON is proving to be one of the most unpredictable and competitive editions in history.
Quarter-Final Fixtures and What to Expect
Nigeria vs Zambia
Friday, July 18 – 16:00 GMT
Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca
Nine-time champions Nigeria are looking to reinforce their continental dominance but have struggled offensively, with just one goal from open play since the tournament began. Head coach Justine Madugu admitted, “Goals are a concern, but our defence is solid. We’re not here to underestimate anyone.”
Zambia, on the other hand, arrives brimming with confidence. Their dynamic duo, Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, have netted three goals each, and the team matched Nigeria’s seven-point haul in the group stage. “This could be our year,” Banda declared. “It’s time for the Zambian women to shine.”
Nigeria goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie remains confident: “I’ve studied their strikers. Trust me, I’m ready.”
Morocco vs Mali
Friday, July 18 – 19:00 GMT
Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat
Host nation Morocco, led by four-goal captain Ghizlane Chebbak, edged Senegal to top their group and avoid early clashes with the continent’s heavyweights. Head coach Jorge Vilda remains measured: “We’re happy, but not euphoric. The job is far from done.”
Mali, who advanced as one of the best third-placed teams, hope for a fitness boost from captain Fatoumata Karentao, who limped off injured in their last outing. Coach Mohamed Saloum remains upbeat: “This stage reveals the true quality of every team. We are ready to rise.”
Algeria vs Ghana
Saturday, July 19 – 16:00 GMT
Municipal Stadium, Berkane
Unbeaten and yet to concede a goal, Algeria has quietly built momentum under coach Farid Benstiti. “Defensive discipline got us this far,” he said, hinting at a cautious approach for the knockouts.
Ghana, however, rebounded from an early loss to storm into the quarter-finals with a 4–1 demolition of Tanzania. Eyeing redemption after their 2018 exit to Mali, coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren stated, “Every game is now a final. Our belief is growing.”
South Africa vs Senegal
Saturday, July 19 – 20:00 GMT
Stade d’Honneur, Oujda
Reigning champions South Africa have shown their depth, with seven different players getting on the scoresheet. Captain Refiloe Jane’s sublime free-kick sealed their group-stage dominance. Coach Desiree Ellis cautioned, “Knockout football is ruthless. One moment of brilliance, or madness, can change everything.”
Senegal, boosted by joint-top scorer Nguenar Ndiaye, is chasing history. “The objective is clear: make our first semi-final,” affirmed coach Mame Moussa Cisse.
African Women’s Football on the Rise (WAFCON)
This year’s WAFCON is a testament to the surging quality of women’s football across Africa. With traditional powerhouses being challenged and new contenders stepping up, the quarter-finals promise edge-of-the-seat action and potential surprises.
As the road to the title narrows, each match holds the weight of history, and a chance to inspire the next generation. Whether giants will stand tall or underdogs will break through, one thing is clear: the spirit of African women’s football is soaring higher than ever.
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