Super Falcons Stars Miss Out on WAFCON 2026 Best XI

No player from Nigeria’s Super Falcons has been included in the Confederation of African Football’s Best XI of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The omission follows a disappointing campaign for the 10-time African champions, who were eliminated in the quarter-finals after suffering a 1-0 defeat to Cameroon.

The result marked the first time Nigeria failed to reach the semi-finals of the continental competition.

Champions Cameroon dominated CAF’s selection, providing four players for the Best XI. Goalkeeper Michaelly Bihina was selected alongside defenders Myrian Myadjou, Monique Ngock and Marie Ngah.

Tournament runners-up Malawi had two representatives in the team, with sisters Tabitha Chawinga and Temwa Chawinga earning places following their impressive performances throughout the competition.

Hosts Morocco also secured two spots in the Best XI through Mohaila Benzina and Hanane Ait El Haj.

Algeria equally contributed two players, with Ines Bellomou and Marine Dafeur selected.

Zambia’s star striker Barbara Banda completed the Best XI after another strong individual performance at the tournament.

The selection highlights the competitive nature of the 2026 WAFCON, with several teams producing outstanding individual performances.

For Nigeria, the absence of any Super Falcons player from the final XI compounds the disappointment of their early elimination.

The Super Falcons entered the tournament with high expectations given their dominant record in African women’s football and history of success at the WAFCON.

However, their quarter-final defeat to Cameroon ended their campaign earlier than expected and denied them another opportunity to compete for the continental title.

The result also marked a significant setback for a team that has traditionally been a dominant force in African women’s football.

Cameroon’s strong representation in the Best XI reflects their successful campaign and eventual triumph, while Malawi’s two selections underline their impressive run to the final.

Morocco, Algeria and Zambia also earned recognition through players who made significant contributions to their respective teams.

The CAF Best XI is expected to serve as a reflection of the standout individual performances recorded during the tournament.