…Last time out, Zambia beat Nigeria 1-0 three years ago in the bronze medal match of WAFCON. They are meeting again in WAFCON quarterfinals
The group stage of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2025 has concluded. Eight teams are still competing for continental glory.
With four quarterfinal clashes spread over two days, fans can expect high drama. There will be intense rivalries. Dreams are on the line as teams battle for a place in the semifinals. For some, it’s about qualification to the 2026 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Here’s a breakdown of the quarterfinal matchups and what to expect from each clash:
Nigeria vs Zambia
Friday July 18, 2025 | Time: 17:00 | Venue: Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca
This tie promises to be one of the standout encounters of the quarterfinals. Nine-time champions Nigeria, ever the tournament heavyweights, face a rising Zambian side brimming with confidence and attacking flair.
The Super Falcons have shown tactical discipline and squad depth under coach Justin Madugu, while Zambia’s Copper Queens, led by star striker Barbra Banda, continue to prove they are no pushovers in African women’s football.
Zambia will be looking to avenge their semi-final loss to Nigeria in 2022 and prove they can go toe-to-toe with Africa’s most decorated women’s team. The physical battle in midfield and pace on the flanks could be decisive.
Morocco vs Mali
Friday, July 18, 2025 | Time: 20:00 | Venue: Stade Olympique, Rabat
Host nation Morocco will enjoy passionate home support under the Rabat lights as they clash with Mali in what promises to be a tactical chess match. The Atlas Lionesses, runners-up in 2022, have grown in maturity and cohesion, and will look to harness their home advantage to reach the semifinals once again.
Mali, however, will not be overawed. They have shown grit and resilience in their journey so far and will aim to upset the hosts with disciplined defending and counterattacks. A tight contest could come down to moments of individual brilliance or a set-piece decider.
Algeria vs Ghana
Saturday July 19, 2025 | Time: 17:00 | Venue: Berkane Stadium, Berkane
Ghana’s Black Queens head into this clash as slight favourites after a strong group-stage campaign, but they will be wary of a spirited Algerian side that has shown defensive tenacity. Ghana boasts a balanced squad with firepower from the likes of Evelyn Badu and Princella Adubea, and will look to control the tempo early.
Algeria, meanwhile, will need to absorb pressure and take their chances efficiently. With both teams chasing a semifinal return after years of near misses, the intensity will be high. This is a match where experience and composure may outweigh flair.
South Africa vs Senegal
Saturday, July 19, 2025 | Time: 20:00 | Venue: Stade de l’Honneur, Oujda
Defending champions South Africa are on a mission to retain their crown, and their commanding performance in the group stage suggests they remain the team to beat. Led by experienced stars like Refiloe Jane and Hildah Magaia, Banyana Banyana bring pace, precision, and tactical clarity to every match.
Senegal, however, are quietly gaining momentum and will relish the underdog tag. Their physicality and disciplined structure could pose challenges, especially if they frustrate South Africa and force errors. Expect a battle of styles: South Africa’s flowing football versus Senegal’s structured solidity.
What’s at Stake?
Beyond semifinal places, the WAFCON quarterfinals are crucial as the top four teams will also secure automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA Women’s World Cup. For teams like Zambia and Mali, it’s a chance to make history. For Nigeria and South Africa, it’s about legacy and dominance. And for Morocco, it’s the weight and pride of hosting a nation’s hopes.
As knockout football begins, expect surprises, heart-stopping moments, and African women’s football at its most thrilling.
Sports Village Square
