Cameroon to meet surprise finalists Malawi in WAFCON 2026 showdown

Cameroon will face surprise qualifiers Malawi in the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026, setting up a compelling contest between an established force and a side that has grown in confidence through the knockout stages.

Malawi reached the title match after a 3-1 win over Algeria in Wednesday’s first semi-final, with forward Tabitha Chawinga scoring twice to lead from the front. In the other semi-final, Cameroon progressed by winning 3-1 on penalties against hosts Morocco after a scoreless draw, underlining their composure in a high-pressure finish.

Malawi’s breakthrough run gathers momentum Malawi’s march into the final has been one of the most encouraging storylines of this edition, showing how teams outside the traditional spotlight can seize their moment with clarity and belief.

Against Algeria, Malawi’s attacking intent was evident, and Tabitha Chawinga’s brace provided the cutting edge. Two goals in a semi-final do more than swing a match — they steady a team, lift the bench, and send a clear message that Malawi belong on this stage.

For Malawi, the win also reflects growing depth and ambition in women’s football across Africa. A place in the final is a reward for disciplined planning and the ability to deliver when it matters most. With one more match to go, Malawi now have an opportunity to turn a remarkable campaign into a historic title.

Cameroon hold their nerve in a tight semi-final Cameroon’s route to the final was built on patience and defensive organisation. Their semi-final against Morocco finished goalless, a result that spoke to both teams’ structure and the fine margins typical of knockout football.

When the match went to penalties, Cameroon showed calm execution, winning the shootout 3-1. Penalty shootouts often test mindset as much as technique, and Cameroon’s success highlights a squad that can stay composed under pressure — a quality that becomes even more valuable in a final.

Morocco, meanwhile, can take positives from pushing a strong Cameroonian side the distance in front of their supporters. Matches like this also add to the experience base of the region’s women’s game, strengthening competitiveness for future tournaments.

A final that rewards resilience and ambition The final now brings together two different journeys: Cameroon’s hard-earned progress through a tight, tactical contest, and Malawi’s confident semi-final performance powered by a star display from Chawinga.

For Cameroon, the focus will be on converting their defensive solidity into decisive moments in open play and carrying their shootout confidence into the biggest match of the tournament. For Malawi, the challenge will be to maintain their attacking sharpness while managing the occasion.

Beyond the result, the matchup is a positive sign for the tournament’s overall health — a final that includes a “surprise qualifier” adds freshness, invites new fans, and encourages federations and clubs to invest further in the women’s game.

**Why it matters:** A Cameroon–Malawi final highlights rising competitiveness in women’s football, celebrates standout performances like Tabitha Chawinga’s, and shows how calm execution under pressure — from goals to penalties — can open new pathways for teams and talent.