Michelle Alozie believes WAFCON is more than a continental competition—it’s a launchpad. The Houston Dash defender hopes more NWSL clubs begin to recognize the depth of African talent on display, following the example set by stars like Barbra Banda and Asisat Oshoala.
Nigeria and Houston Dash defender Michelle Alozie believes the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) could open new doors for African players in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), as the U.S. top flight increasingly turns its focus to the continent for elite talent.
Alozie is among 14 U.S.-based players participating in this year’s WAFCON, a number that underlines the growing influence of African footballers in American soccer. And for the 28-year-old Super Falcons star, this tournament is more than just a battle for continental supremacy—it’s a global shop window.
African Talent Making Waves in the NWSL
Over the last two seasons, African players have left a significant mark on the NWSL. Malawi international Temwa Chawinga led the league in goals last season, while Zambia’s Barbra Banda earned Team of the Year honors before making headlines with a world-record transfer to Bay FC in 2024. That $862,000 fee, paid to Madrid CFF, underlined how much value top NWSL sides now place on African talent.
“I think it’s really important for people to get eyes on African footballers, especially with a big tournament like WAFCON,” Alozie told ESPN. “Players like Banda and Racheal Kundananji have shown that African players are excelling in the NWSL and at WAFCON. Hopefully, that will lead to more clubs looking in this direction.”
Alozie herself represents a blend of American development and African heritage. Born and raised in California, she came through the U.S. collegiate system—first at Yale, where she earned a degree in molecular biology, and later at the University of Tennessee—before turning professional with the Houston Dash in 2021 after a brief stint in Kazakhstan.
WAFCON as a Springboard
The Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, long considered a proving ground for African stars, is now emerging as a scouting hotspot for international clubs—particularly those in the U.S.
“With so many top players here from around the world, but especially from the NWSL, I hope more teams are watching WAFCON,” said Alozie. “There’s so much potential on this continent.”
Nigeria alone have called up four U.S.-based players: Alozie, midfielder Deborah Abiodun (Dallas Trinity), forward Chioma Okafor (University of Connecticut), and the legendary Asisat Oshoala, who joined Bay FC from Barcelona in early 2024.
Oshoala’s Influence Still Vital
Oshoala, a six-time CAF African Women’s Footballer of the Year, is no longer a guaranteed starter at age 30, but her leadership in the Super Falcons camp remains influential. The former Barcelona, Liverpool, and Arsenal striker opened Nigeria’s WAFCON campaign with a goal in their 3-0 win over Tunisia and continues to serve as a role model for younger players.
“It’s so nice to have someone of her calibre present in camp,” said Alozie. “She’s done so much for African football. She’s one of the few who really helped push international clubs to pay attention to African players.”
That veteran presence, according to Alozie, is vital—not just tactically, but culturally and psychologically. With Nigeria chasing their 12th WAFCON crown, experience could be the edge they need.
As the tournament continues, Alozie remains hopeful that performances on the pitch can inspire change off it—starting with more African names being scouted, signed, and celebrated in the NWSL.
