Steve Barker happy with new Stellenbosch arrivals as pre-season intensifies
Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker is happy with how his new signings have settled in at the club, as they start to gain momentum in their pre-season camp.
After being pushed back a year because of scheduling issues, the hosts drew 2-2 against Zambia in the opening game at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat on Saturday.
Record nine-time champions Nigeria are also in action on the opening weekend, facing Tunisia in Group B on Sunday (16:00 GMT), while holders South Africa begin the defense of their title against Ghana in Group C on Monday.
Listeners to the World Service in Africa will be able to hear live radio commentary of the group clash between Mali and Tanzania, both semi-finals and the final.
What are the groups?
The 12 teams have been split into three groups of four.
Hosts Morocco have a tough assignment in Group A, having been paired with a Zambia side which defeated them in qualification for the 2024 Olympic Games.
The Atlas Lionesses will also face Senegal and DR Congo, the top-ranked side from pot four.
The draw was kinder to Nigeria, who are bidding for their first title since 2018 and remain Africa's top-ranked side at 36th in the world.
The Super Falcons will take on Tunisia, Algeria and Botswana - the lowest-ranked nations from each pot.
Group C sees holders South Africa take on Ghana and Mali, who are both back at the finals for the first time since 2018, and Tanzania, who are making just their second appearance following on since their debut in 2010.
The top two teams in each group and the two best-ranked third-placed teams will advance to the quarter-finals.
Group A: Morocco, Zambia, Senegal, DR Congo.
Group B: Nigeria, Tunisia, Algeria, Botswana.
Group C: South Africa, Ghana, Mali, Tanzania.
