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Low Crowd at WAFCON Match Fuels Calls for Greater Support for Women’s Football in Africa

Promise Odejide2 mins

A viral video from the ongoing TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026 has reignited conversations about the level of support for women’s football in Africa after capturing a sparsely populated stadium during Nigeria’s opening match against Malawi.

The video, recorded inside Al Madina Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, showed large sections of empty seats as Nigeria’s Super Falcons began their campaign against the tournament debutants.

Woman Laments Empty Stadium

In the selfie-style clip, the woman behind the video expressed disappointment over the turnout, urging Africans to do more in supporting women’s sports.

“We can actually do better in supporting African women in sports. The whole stadium is practically empty,” she said.

She also claimed the attendance was extremely low, estimating that only about “30 people” were present for the Group C encounter.

Video Sparks Debate Online

The footage gained widespread attention after it was shared across social media, prompting mixed reactions from football fans.

Many agreed that women’s football on the continent deserves stronger backing from supporters, while others pointed to factors such as scheduling, limited promotion and the absence of host-nation involvement in some fixtures as possible reasons for the low turnout.

Reports have indicated that several group-stage matches have attracted relatively small crowds, although games involving host nation Morocco have recorded better attendance.

Calls for Greater Investment

The development has renewed calls for increased investment in promoting women’s football across Africa.

Fans and observers have urged football authorities to improve marketing, strengthen grassroots development and create more awareness around the women’s game to attract larger audiences.

WAFCON 2026, hosted by Morocco from July 26 to August 16, features 16 teams and also serves as a qualifying tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Defending champions Nigeria are chasing a record-extending 11th continental title.

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