Morocco also staged the 2022 edition of Wafcon, ending as runners-up, and former international Fatiha Laassiri believes home support will provide “a real advantage” next year.

But, with Senegal exiting on penalties in the quarter-finals last time around and DR Congo back at the finals for the first time since 2012, ex-Nigeria goalkeeper Rachael Ayegba thinks Group A is the one to watch.

“Senegal played well in 2022 and I’m not going to be surprised if they play even better,” she told BBC Sport Africa.

“DR Congo are ready to showcase what they can bring to the table. I think Morocco and Zambia will have the upper hand but Senegal and DR Congo might disrupt things.”

Ayegba also warned Nigeria about complacency after Botswana and Tunisia made the quarter-finals two years ago.

“Tunisia, Algeria and Botswana are going to give Nigeria a fight,” she added. “Anything is possible in Group B.”

Meanwhile, South Africa goalkeeper Andile Dlamini said Banyana Banyana are “not going to be cocky” as they prepare to defend their title.

“The top three countries (Nigeria, South Africa and Morocco) finished in the last 16 at the 2023 Women’s World Cup and anyone is capable of winning this tournament,” added the 32-year-old.

“It depends on who excels on the specific day.”