Top NWSL And WSL Starts to Watch at WAFCON 2024

As the countdown to the 2024 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) ticks down, ESPN has unveiled a list of the top 10 players from the USA’s National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and England’s Women’s Super League (WSL) set to feature in the tournament, which kicks off on July 5 in Morocco.

The list showcases elite talent from Nigeria, Zambia, and Ghana, with Zambia’s Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji leading the rankings and expected to spearhead the Copper Queens’ push for continental glory.

⭐ 1. Barbra Banda (Zambia – Orlando Pride)
Topping the list is Zambia’s prolific striker Barbra Banda. After missing the last WAFCON due to eligibility concerns, Banda’s return adds serious firepower to a Copper Queens side that finished third in 2022. Her heroics at the Tokyo Olympics and in the NWSL, including a title-winning goal for Orlando Pride, make her one of the continent’s most feared forwards.

⭐ 2. Racheal Kundananji (Zambia – Bay FC)
Kundananji, the former world’s most expensive female footballer, has made headlines with her €735,000 transfer to Bay FC. Known for her versatility and work ethic, the 24-year-old has been a vital cog in Zambia’s rise and is expected to shine alongside Banda in Morocco.

⭐ 3. Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria – Brighton & Hove Albion)
After an impressive stint at Paris FC, Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie recently signed with Brighton. Renowned for her Champions League heroics and shot-stopping prowess, she’s a dependable presence in goal for the Super Falcons.

⭐ 4. Asisat Oshoala (Nigeria – Bay FC)
Africa’s most decorated female footballer with six CAF Player of the Year titles, Oshoala remains a key figure for Nigeria. Though her form has dipped since moving to Bay FC from Barcelona, she remains one of the continent’s most iconic stars.

⭐ 5. Toni Payne (Nigeria – Everton)
The creative engine of Nigeria’s midfield, Payne impressed in her debut WSL season, registering six assists. Her ability to unlock defences will be crucial as Nigeria chases a record-extending 12th WAFCON title.

⭐ 6. Michelle Alozie (Nigeria – Houston Dash)
Known for her versatility and resilience, Alozie brings grit and experience to the Nigerian squad. A fullback by trade, she gained international fame for her sportsmanship at the 2023 Women’s World Cup and now aims to taste WAFCON glory.

⭐ 7. Grace Chanda (Zambia – Orlando Pride)
Injuries have hampered her consistency, but Chanda’s recent contract extension with Orlando Pride reflects her value. A dynamic midfielder, she’s set to be a creative spark in Zambia’s campaign.

⭐ 8. Prisca Chilufya (Zambia – Orlando Pride)
A late bloomer in the NWSL, Chilufya has impressed with Orlando and will look to make an impact in her first major African championship with Zambia.

⭐ 9. Stella Nyamekye (Ghana – Gotham FC)
At just 19, Nyamekye is already making waves in the NWSL and was a CAF Youth Player of the Year nominee. A dual-threat as a midfielder and forward, she could emerge as one of the breakout stars in Morocco.

⭐ 10. Princess Marfo (Ghana – Bay FC)
Another rising Ghanaian talent, Marfo is building her reputation in the NWSL and will be keen to announce herself on the big stage as Ghana eyes a return to the top tier of African women’s football.

With this depth of international talent on display, the 2024 WAFCON promises to be one of the most exciting editions yet. All eyes will be on Morocco as Africa’s elite players from the world’s top leagues battle for continental supremacy.