Six-time African Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala is targeting another title with the Super Falcons while calling for improved broadcasting and stronger promotion ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), www.aclsports.com reports.
The Nigeria forward, who has won the continental title four times, spoke during the CAF Women’s Football Stars Spotlight webinar, reflecting on her journey, the growth of the women’s game and her expectations ahead of another WAFCON campaign.
Nigeria, the defending champions and record 10-time winners of the tournament, will compete in Group C alongside Malawi, Zambia and Egypt at the 2026 WAFCON, which will kick off on 26 July and run until 16 August in Morocco
Reflecting on her career journey from a young player in Nigeria to becoming one of Africa’s biggest football exports, Oshoala said she has witnessed significant progress in women’s football across the continent.
“It’s really been an amazing journey for me personally, having experienced all of this growth from when I started playing up until now. I’ve also had the opportunity to play on other continents and compare that with the growth we’ve achieved in Africa. I think it’s been pretty impressive.
“Of course, there is always room for improvement. There are a lot of things that still need to get better, but I believe we are on the right path and it’s only going to get better from here.”
The four-time WAFCON winner said Nigeria’s ambition remains winning another African title but stressed the importance of improving the tournament experience.
“We are looking forward to Nigeria winning it again. Of course, it’s something we always fight for. But I feel like every edition has to come with some form of improvement, whether it is on the pitch or off the pitch,” she said.
Oshoala believes better broadcasting and increased promotion will help grow WAFCON and give African players more global exposure.
“One thing I really want to see is more fans out there. The last edition was great on the internet. Looking at the media side, I think it was on a good level and better than previous editions,” she said.
“I think there could be more promotion for this edition. It will help to spread more awareness about African football to people who are not really aware of it.”
The Super Falcons star also highlighted the importance of making matches accessible to fans, clubs and scouts around the world.
“When it comes to broadcasting, I think this is something that would really help the game. It would also help players gain more exposure, as agents and clubs can watch them from their comfort zones.”
Oshoala also praised the emergence of more African stars on the global stage, including Zambia’s Barbra Banda and Malawi’s Tabitha Chawinga.
“This is amazing for the sport in Africa. This is the visibility we are talking about. If people are not able to watch these players, they will not have the opportunity to bring them into their clubs and teams.”
The former Barcelona forward added that grassroots development remains key for African countries hoping to close the gap with Nigeria.
“Grassroots football is very, very important. If they can improve on that, I think it will make a huge difference.”
