Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and the Rise of African Players in the NWSL
At the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), the prowess of African players based in the United States is becoming increasingly significant, according to Michelle Alozie, a Nigerian athlete currently playing for the Houston Dash in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Alozie suggests that the high caliber displayed at this tournament could encourage more NWSL teams to scout talent from Africa.
Growing Representation of African Players
The presence of African players in the NWSL has surged over recent years, evidenced by Malawi’s Temwa Chawinga leading last season in goals and Zambia’s Barbra Banda being recognized in the Team of the Year. This trend has translated into a stronger representation at WAFCON, with 14 athletes from U.S. institutions participating, including both collegiate talents and professional players.
“It’s exciting to see NWSL players participating in WAFCON. Recognizing the success of African footballers in the NWSL is crucial, particularly with standout performances from players like Banda and Racheal Kundananji. Huge platforms like WAFCON can help shine a light on the talent coming from Africa.”
Alozie’s Journey and the NWSL’s Investment in Talent
Alozie’s journey in soccer began in her native California, where she played for Granite Hills High School before moving on to Yale University, where she earned her degree in molecular biology while competing for the Yale Bulldogs. She later transferred to the University of Tennessee to play for the Volunteers, which led to her joining the Houston Dash in 2021 following a brief stint at BIIK Kazygurt in Kazakhstan.
The NWSL is proving to be more than willing to invest in African talent, as highlighted by Racheal Kundananji’s record $862,000 transfer to Bay FC from Madrid CFF, which set a new benchmark for women’s football transfers in 2024. Alozie anticipates that the talent showcased at WAFCON will capture the attention of more clubs in the NWSL, encouraging them to invest in African players’ potential.
Nigeria’s Squad and Oshoala’s Influence
Nigeria’s squad for WAFCON includes four players currently based in the U.S.: Alozie, Deborah Abiodun from the USL Super League’s Dallas Trinity, Chioma Okafor from the University of Connecticut, and renowned veteran Asisat Oshoala, who recently moved to Bay FC from Barcelona.
Oshoala, a recognized figure in women’s football and a six-time CAF African Women’s Footballer of the Year, aims to add another WAFCON title to her accolades after previously winning three in succession from 2014 to 2018. During the tournament’s opening game, she netted Nigeria’s first goal in a 3-0 win against Tunisia. Despite not being a guaranteed starter now, her veteran presence remains invaluable to the team’s dynamics.
“Having legends like Asisat Oshoala in our team adds depth and experience. She has achieved so much with clubs like Barcelona, Liverpool, and Arsenal, and her presence inspires other African players to pursue similar opportunities. It’s vital that we maintain such veteran leadership in our squad, not just for mentorship but to uphold the legacy established in recent tournaments.”
