The 2023 Women’s FIFA World Cup is set to captivate football fans worldwide, and Africa will be well-represented by four nations eager to showcase their talent and compete against the world’s best. Nigeria, Morocco, South Africa, and Zambia have emerged as the continent’s representatives in this prestigious tournament. BOUNCE takes a closer look at these teams and the players who will be flying the African flag on the global stage.

Nigeria – The Super Falcons:

Nigeria’s women’s national team, fondly known as the Super Falcons, is a force to be reckoned with in African women’s football. With a rich history of success, the Super Falcons have dominated the African Women’s Cup of Nations, winning it a record 11 times. Led by experienced coach Randy Waldrum, Nigeria will look to make their mark at the 2023 World Cup.

The Super Falcons boast a talented squad featuring players such as Asisat Oshoala, the team’s prolific forward and one of Africa’s most renowned female footballers of all time. With her blistering pace and clinical finishing, Oshoala will be a key player to watch. Other notable players include Desire Oparanozie, Onome Ebi, and Rasheedat Ajibade, who will contribute their skills and experience to propel Nigeria forward in the tournament.

AUNZ Bound 🔥 #soarsuperfalcons pic.twitter.com/CgYLuF3kC5

— NGSuper_Falcons (@NGSuper_Falcons) June 16, 2023

2023 World Cup Group: The Super Falcons are in group B alongside Canada, Australia, and the Republic of Ireland.

World Cup Appearances: Nine (From 1991 till date)

Best Record: Quarterfinalist in 1999

Morocco – The Atlas Lionesses:

Morocco’s women’s national team, the Atlas Lionesses, has made great strides in recent years, earning their spot at the 2023 World Cup. Although relatively new to the international stage, the team has shown promise and will be eager to make a strong impression in their first appearance at the tournament.

Led by coach Reynald Pedros, the Atlas Lionesses possess a blend of youth and experience. Notable players include Ghizlane Chebbak, a skillful midfielder known for her playmaking abilities, and forward Rosella Ayane, who has an eye for goal. With a resilient spirit and a hunger to succeed, Morocco will aim to surprise opponents and leave their mark on the tournament.

اللائحة الأولية للمنتخب الوطني النسوي المناداة عليها من طرف السيد رينالد بيدروس

🚨 FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023™️ Pre-selection list#DimaMaghrib 🇲🇦 #OneGameOneFamily #AtlasLionesses pic.twitter.com/Q57oWhrFfh

— Équipe du Maroc (@EnMaroc) June 19, 2023

2023 World Cup Group: The North African side is in group H alongside Germany, Colombia, and South Korea.

World Cup Appearances: 2023

Best Record: Debut

South Africa – Banyana Banyana:

South Africa’s women’s national team, affectionately known as Banyana Banyana, has been a consistent presence on the African football scene. They have qualified for their second consecutive World Cup, showcasing the growth and progress of women’s football in the country.

Led by head coach Desiree Ellis, Banyana Banyana possess a talented squad with players like Thembi Kgatlana, who won the African Women’s Player of the Year award in 2018. Kgatlana’s explosive speed and goal-scoring ability make her a potent threat in the attacking third. Other key players include Captain Janine van Wyk, Linda Motlhalo, and Refiloe Jane. Banyana Banyana will aim to build on their previous World Cup experience and create a lasting impression.

Breaking News 📰⚽️

Ellis names FINAL Banyana Banyana squad for the 2023 @FIFAWWC 🏆

💚💛🇿🇦#LiveTheImpossible pic.twitter.com/jXEzzdmwzP

— Banyana_Banyana (@Banyana_Banyana) June 23, 2023

2023 World Cup Group: The Banyana Banyana are in group G alongside Argentina, Italy, and Sweden.

World Cup Appearances: 2019 and 2023

Best Record: Group Stage in 2019

Zambia – The Copper Queens:

Zambia’s women’s national team, the Copper Queens, will make their debut appearance at the Women’s World Cup in 2023. Their qualification for the tournament is a remarkable achievement, reflecting the rapid growth of women’s football in the country.

Under the guidance of coach Bruce Mwape, the Copper Queens will look to showcase their talent and fearlessness on the global stage. Barbra Banda, the team’s captain and star player, will be the one to watch. Banda is a dynamic forward known for her exceptional goal-scoring ability. Her leadership and skill will be crucial in inspiring her teammates to compete at the highest level. Other notable players include Grace Chanda, Rachel Kudananji, and Margaret Belemu.

The final Zambia squad for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. #WeAreCopperQueens pic.twitter.com/VF8kdjMNlE

— FAZ (@FAZFootball) July 3, 2023

2023 World Cup Group: The Cooper Queens are in Group C alongside Spain, Japan, and Costa Rica.

World Cup Appearances: 2023

Best Record: Debut