The 2022 WAFCON competition had its highs and lows, but it was evident that Women’s football in Africa is getting a major boost. Organizers are increasing the number of competing teams and boosting the prize money, helping take women’s football in the continent to the next level.
Here’s a look at all the star performances from the just concluded 2022 WAFCON competitions. The top betting companies in Nigeria offered odds on the tournament, which was quite impressive4 to watch.
Desiree Ellis finally succeeds
Only a few things are more beautiful in soccer than a complex arc solving itself with glorious success. Ellis has had to wait for her WAFCON glory long, tasting defeat while playing and coaching Banyana Banyana before finally taking gold home.
Desiree’s achievement resulted from both management and tactical success, helping South Africa to fill the space left by Thembi Kgatlana during the last three.
Morocco will look back to a might performance despite a home defeat
Morocco’s loss at home last Saturday will hurt for some time, but the Atlas Lionesses will look back at a mighty tournament performance when the dust settles. The team enjoyed a 100% record during the group stages, seeing off Nigeria and Botswana in knockouts. However, they remained content to the end.
The team’s tournament run was an incredible success, on and off the field. They continued demonstrating how strategic investment and planning can transform soccer at all levels.
Zambia has come a long way
Compared to the Super Falcons, which appear to be declining, Zambia’s female footballers demonstrated great skills at the Nations Cup. Their performance shows they have what it takes to be a major African force in the future.
Even without Banda’s services, the team reached the semi-finals and eventually secured bronze after defeating a Super Falcons side. Imagine what Zambia would have achieved with Banda and three other players that were controversially omitted or if some officiating calls went their way in the semi-finals.
Zambia had come a long way since their last year’s performance in the Olympics when they had a very poor defense. It will be interesting to see how Zambia acquits itself in the World Cup. Zambia had previously won only one WAFCON game in history before this tournament, with their celebrations after beating Senegal on penalty shootouts being among the most outstanding moments.
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