Women’s AFCON 2026 Qualifiers: Final spots to be decided on October 28

October 28 will determine which nations advance to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), as the second-leg matches of the final qualifying round take place across the continent.

Morocco, the host nation, awaits the outcome of these decisive encounters to know which teams will join them in the tournament’s final phase.

After tightly contested first-leg fixtures, every side faces a crucial challenge, with qualification dreams on the line.

Nigeria enter the return leg as heavy favourites after a convincing 2-0 win over Benin in the first meeting.

The Super Falcons will aim to finish the job on home soil and extend their record as one of Africa’s most dominant women’s teams.

Ghana, who claimed an impressive 3-0 first-leg victory against Egypt, also stand on the verge of qualification.

Their focus now is to maintain composure and close out the tie. Mali, who defeated Cape Verde 1-0 away, hope to secure a smooth passage to the final phase in front of their supporters.

Other encounters remain delicately balanced. Algeria hold a narrow 2-1 lead from the first leg but face a tough challenge from Cameroon, who will fight fiercely to overturn the deficit.

Defending champions South Africa are in a tense position following a 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo and must deliver a strong performance to keep their title defence alive.

The all-West African clash between Ivory Coast and Senegal is set for a dramatic conclusion after their first leg ended goalless.

Both nations will push for victory in what promises to be one of the most intense duels of the round.

October 28 will not only decide the finalists but also highlight the growing competitiveness of women’s football across Africa.

Each team knows that one victory stands between them and a place in Morocco for the 2026 Women’s AFCON.