The Women’s Africa Cup of Nations is taking a new step forward with the expansion of the tournament to 16 teams. This decision by the Confederation of African Football aims to accelerate the development of women’s football on the continent whilst offering more opportunities to African national teams.
The Women’s Africa Cup of Nations is entering a new phase of its development with the expansion of the competition to 16 teams. This decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is intended to support the continued growth of women’s football across the African continent. By increasing the number of available places, the governing body aims to provide more opportunities for national teams to compete at the highest continental level.
« We will always do what is necessary. Every nation that comes here receives at least US$125,000. Every team receives US$125,000, something that has never happened before at CAF. »
Patrice Motsepe, CAF President – South Africa
In a statement released on 3 November 2025 from Cairo, CAF officially confirmed that the tournament would expand from 12 to 16 teams starting with the 2026 edition. The change forms part of a broader strategy to develop women’s football in Africa. A larger tournament means more matches, encouraging national associations and host countries to improve their sporting infrastructure. In the long term, this momentum could strengthen the organisation, coaching structures and overall development of women’s football across the continent.
« The objective is simple: we want all this money to go towards the development of football in Africa. It is a huge amount. »
Patrice Motsepe, CAF President – South Africa
The expansion also provides an opportunity for new national teams to reach Africa’s highest level of competition. For the 2026 edition, CAF relied on the FIFA Women’s World Ranking to complete the list of participating teams. Under this system, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali and Egypt have qualified for the tournament. The expansion is expected to encourage the emergence of new footballing nations while further enhancing the commercial profile and visibility of women’s football in Africa.
