Nigeria’s Super Falcons have been handed a major financial incentive ahead of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced a significant increase in prize money for the tournament, Soccernet.ng reports.
CAF revealed that the winner of this year’s competition will take home a record-breaking $1 million — roughly ₦1.5 billion — a 100% rise from the previous edition’s prize. The total prize pot has also surged by 45%, now totalling $3.475 million.
CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe confirmed the new figures earlier this week, stating:
“CAF is continuing with its commitment to the development and growth of Women’s Football in Africa. The improved prize money will contribute to better salaries for women footballers, coaches and staff.”
With nine titles to their name — including dominance when the competition was a knockout qualifier for the World Cup — the Super Falcons remain the most decorated side in WAFCON history. However, the team has not lifted the trophy since their triumph in Ghana in 2018.
The 2022 edition saw Nigeria fall short, losing in the semi-finals to hosts Morocco and then again in the third-place match to Zambia, eventually finishing fourth. South Africa went on to win the tournament, securing their first-ever title.
This time, the Super Falcons are eager to reclaim their crown — and the enhanced winner’s cheque is adding fresh fuel to that ambition.
Veteran winger Francisca Ordega, who already has four WAFCON titles under her belt, spoke with the BBC about the team’s renewed determination.
“Everyone wants this title back,” Ordega said. “Most of these girls haven’t played in WAFCON before, and they really want to make a name for themselves.”
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Nigeria’s squad features a blend of experience and youth, and Ordega believes the hunger among the younger players will be key to their success.
The Super Falcons have been drawn in Group B, alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana. They will kick off their campaign against Tunisia on Sunday at 5pm.
CAF’s prize structure now rewards all teams, including those finishing third and fourth in their group — with payouts ranging from $125,000 to $200,000 for quarter-finalists. This signals a watershed moment in African women’s football, as financial investment begins to match the quality on display.
“We are excited about the substantial increase in fans, broadcast audiences and sponsors,” Motsepe added. “This competition is going to be enormously successful.”
With prestige, pride, and a historic payday on the line, all eyes are now on the Super Falcons — and their quest for a record-extending 10th African title.