African Women’s Football Championship Kicks Off at Suez Canal Stadium

The Suez Canal Stadium is set to host an exciting fortnight of women’s football as eight clubs from across Africa compete for the prestigious title in this year’s African Women’s Football Championship. The tournament, which began today, features two groups of four teams, all vying for victory and the chance to qualify for the prestigious 2027 FIFA Women’s Champions Cup.

The reigning champions, AS FAR from Morocco, are back to defend their title after winning in 2025. However, they will face strong competition throughout the tournament.

Group Dynamics and Match Schedule

The participating teams are divided into two groups:

• Group A: FC Masar (Egypt), Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa), FUS Rabat (Morocco), Lekié Football Filles (Cameroon)
• Group B: AS FAR (Morocco), Kawempe Muslim Ladies (Uganda), USFAS Bamako (Mali), Ampem Darkoa (Ghana)

The opening matches are scheduled as follows:

• Group A:
  • FUS Rabat vs Lekié Football Filles at 14:00
  • FC Masar vs Mamelodi Sundowns at 17:00
• Group B:
  • AS FAR vs Kawempe Muslim Ladies at 14:00
  • USFAS Bamako vs Ampem Darkoa at 17:00

The group stage will continue until November 8, leading into knockout rounds that will culminate in the final scheduled for November 15.

Defending Champs and Their Rivals

AS FAR enters the tournament with a strong pedigree, having secured two previous titles in 2022 and 2025, making them one of the most successful teams in the history of the competition. However, they will need to navigate a competitive field, including Mamelodi Sundowns, who have clinched championships in 2021 and 2023, and Tout Puissant Mazembe, champions in 2024, who will not participate in this year’s edition.

This year’s tournament reflects the diverse array of clubs that have shaped the championship since its inception. Each team is eager to demonstrate their growth and carry the aspirations of their respective leagues onto the continental stage.

Looking Ahead

Beyond the quest for the continental title, the stakes are particularly high, as the champion of this tournament will gain entry into the second round of qualifying for the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup, where they will face North Korea’s Naegohyang WFC in December. The finals of this global event are set for January 27 to 31, 2027, in Miami, USA.

In the context of Ismailia, the battle for dominance in African women’s football has officially commenced. All eight teams are not only striving for continental glory but also aiming for a prestigious spot on the world stage.