Women's AFCON 2026: Khaled Lachhab's predictions ahead of the quarter-finals

08.08.26 16:00 Africa Women Cup of Nations

Morocco W

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South Africa W

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The real action kicks off in the Women's Africa Cup of Nations as the quarter-finals get underway.

Eight teams have secured their spots in this round, including Morocco, the host nation and unlucky finalist in the last two editions, as well as Nigeria, the record title-holder in the competition.

After a fiercely contested group stage, expectations are high for an even greater level of play in the quarter-finals.

To discuss the quarter-final matchups, Foot Africa reached out to Khaled Lachhab, a renowned expert in women's football and president of the Tunisian National Women's Football League (LNFF), who agreed to answer questions from our editorial team.

Is Morocco well-equipped to take revenge on South Africa, the team that denied them the 2022 AFCON title?

Yes, I believe so. The Atlas Lionesses are well prepared and have had an excellent tournament so far. South Africa remains a formidable opponent, but I think the North African side looks well-armed to book a ticket to the final four.

Is Nigeria the favorite against Cameroon?

Personally, I think the Super Falcons are the favorites. It's true that Cameroon has made massive progress, but Nigeria boasts a much deeper squad. That said, you can't count out the Indomitable Lionesses, who could pull off a surprise against all odds.

What are your predictions for Algeria vs Ivory Coast?

This is a very balanced match. Both teams are closely matched and have strong arguments to reach the semi-finals, but judging by their recent performances, I'd say the Desert Warriors seem to have a slight edge over the Elephants.

Can Malawi spring a surprise against Ghana?

I think the Black Queens are favorites for several reasons, including their experience in the tournament and their technical and tactical superiority. It would take a real feat for Malawi to pull off a win against Ghana.

Who are your picks to reach the semi-finals?

I see Nigeria, Morocco, Algeria and Ghana making it to the final four. That said, South Africa, Cameroon, and Ivory Coast remain outsiders capable of shaking up the hierarchy.

Do you think the overall level of the competition is improving compared to previous editions?

I believe African women's football is making great strides, particularly on the tactical front. The players are more disciplined, and national teams are showing greater defensive organization.

However, there's still a lot of work to do for the continent's representatives to regularly compete with the world's best and aspire to top roles at the World Cup.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

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