African women set to battle in Namibia

Ghana's Black Queens and seven other teams competing at the 9th African Women's Championships in Namibia are chasing much more than just the African crown – they are eying a place at the FIFA Women's World Cup Canada 2015.

The top three finishers in the October 11–25 tournament will represent the continent in Canada next year, and in the absence of the defending champion — Equatorial Guinea, who were knocked out in the final round of qualifying — all eight finalists will fancy their chances of securing passage.

The eight previous titles have been shared by just two countries. Equatorial Guinea won in 2008 and 2012 while Nigeria's Super Falcons, winners in the remaining six tournaments, go into the finals in Namibia as the favourites to add to those triumphs. 

Nigeria will face Côte d'Ivoire - who knocked out Equatorial Guinea on the away goals rule after two draws - Zambia and the hosts Namibia, who are making their first-ever appearance at the finals and will play in the opening game today. 

Nigeria's biggest challenge is expected to come from South Africa, who have arrived in neighbouring Namibia highly motivated and extremely well prepared. 

Officials have pulled out all stops in the hopes of landing a first continental title. Banyana Banyana, who are making their ninth appearance at the finals, have thrice lost in the championship match and will be eager to finally do better.

Drawn into Group B with Cameroun, Algeria and Ghana, Vera Pauw's side will be happy to have avoided Nigeria in the group phase, but will be wary of Cameroun and Ghana. 

Cameroun are on a run of six consecutive semi-finals at the flagship event of women’s football on the continent, but have yet to qualify for the World Cup. The Black Queens,on the other hand, can look back at three appearances on the global stage, but are also looking for a first African title.