3 days ago
CAF to Unveil New Women's AFCON Trophy
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) will officially unveil the new trophy for the Women's AFCON on Wednesday, July 2.
In a statement, CAF confirmed the launch event will be streamed live across its official Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) accounts from midday. A promotional ceremony, in partnership with the tournament's main sponsor, will follow later in the evening.
The initiative forms part of CAF president Patrice Motsepe's wider strategy to elevate the status of women's football across the continent, both in terms of marketing and symbolism.
The 2025 Women's AFCON kicks off this Saturday, July 5, at the new Olympic Stadium in Rabat, with hosts Morocco facing Zambia in the opening fixture of Group A.
Head coach Jorge Vilda has announced his final 26-player squad, with a blend of local talent and overseas experience. Captain Ghizlane Chebbak (Levante), goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi, and forward Fatima Tagnaout (both AS FAR) lead the charge.
Vilda, who famously led Spain to World Cup glory in 2023, has been full of praise for his squad. 'The players arrive totally committed. They make things easy,' he told CAFOnline. 'We've worked hard, and we're ready.'
His side warmed up with wins over Cape Verde (1-0) and Malawi (4-1), and will now face Zambia, Senegal, and DR Congo in what Vilda reckons is the tournament's toughest group.
'Zambia have improved a lot. We've met them before. They're no pushovers,' he said. 'But hosting is not a pressure. It's a privilege.'
The message to fans? 'We won't disappoint. These players will fight for everything, every ball, every moment.'
Twelve teams are in the running for the Women's AFCON this year, split across three groups. Group B sees Nigeria take on Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana. In Group C, it's South Africa, Ghana, Mali, and Tanzania. Tags: MoroccoWomen's AFCON