As the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in history gets underway in Morocco, 16 teams will battle for continental glory and places at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

The rankings, published on Friday by ESPN Africa, assessed each team’s chances ahead of the continental showpiece in Morocco, where the finalists will also compete for places at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Here’s how the contenders rank from the strongest title favourites to the least fancied teams:

1. Nigeria

The Super Falcons remain the team to beat. Defending champions and record 10-time winners, Nigeria boast the deepest squad, winning mentality and unmatched pedigree. Anything short of an 11th title would be seen as a disappointment.

2. Morocco

Playing at home for the third consecutive WAFCON, Morocco have quality, momentum and strong home support. Led by African Women’s Footballer of the Year Ghizlane Chebbak, the hosts are expected to mount another serious title challenge.

3. South Africa

Banyana Banyana remain among Africa’s elite with a balanced squad and experienced coach Desiree Ellis. The return of Thembi Kgatlana adds firepower to a team capable of going all the way.

4. Ghana

The Black Queens have rediscovered their rhythm under Kim Bjorkegren. A blend of experienced campaigners and exciting young talents makes Ghana one of the tournament’s strongest contenders.

5. Zambia

With stars like Barbra Banda and Rachael Kundananji, Zambia possess one of Africa’s most dangerous attacks. Defensive concerns remain, but they have enough quality to make another deep run.

6. Senegal

Senegal impressed at the previous tournament and remain difficult opponents. Their experienced squad and direct style could trouble any team in Morocco.

7. Algeria

Algeria continue to improve under Farid Benstiti. Their disciplined defence and tactical organisation make them one of the tournament’s dark horses.

8. Cameroon

Although no longer the powerhouse they once were, the Indomitable Lionesses remain competitive and experienced enough to surprise stronger opponents.

9. Ivory Coast

Returning to WAFCON after 12 years, Ivory Coast arrive with confidence, athleticism and attacking quality. They could emerge as one of the tournament’s surprise packages.

10. Mali

Despite poor recent form, Mali possess enough individual quality and European-based talent to compete for a knockout-stage place.

11. Egypt

Back at WAFCON after a decade away, Egypt are still rebuilding but have shown signs of progress. Escaping the group stage would represent a positive campaign.

12. Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso secured qualification comfortably and have developed into a well-organised side. However, they may struggle against Africa’s strongest teams.

13. Cape Verde

Making their tournament debut, Cape Verde have already exceeded expectations by qualifying. Their attacking spirit could produce a few surprises despite limited experience.

14. Tanzania

Tanzania are disciplined and difficult to break down but lack the star quality needed to compete consistently against the tournament’s heavyweights.

15. Malawi

The Chawinga sisters give Malawi genuine attacking threat, but the tournament newcomers face a daunting group and lack squad depth.

16. Kenya

Back at WAFCON after a 10-year absence, Kenya’s return is a major achievement. However, limited experience at this level makes them the tournament’s biggest underdogs.