Rabat: Cameroon defeated tournament debutant Malawi in the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday, securing the trophy for the first time. The Indomitable Lionesses, who had previously missed out on qualifying for the last edition of the tournament, finally broke their streak of losses in the finals, having been bested by 10-time winner Nigeria in their last three appearances.
According to France24.com, Cameroon, which initially did not qualify for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, was granted a second chance when the tournament organizers increased the number of participating teams from 12 to 16. This allowed the inclusion of Cameroon, along with other high-ranking losers, to compete in Morocco for the prestigious title.
Marie Ngah was instrumental in Cameroon’s victory, scoring twice, while Naomi Eto added another goal during the final in Rabat. This win marked a significant achievement for the Indomitable Lionesses, who had previously finished as runners-up three times. The team initi
ally faced setbacks, losing to Algeria in the final qualifying round, but seized the opportunity to compete when given a second chance.
The final marked a disappointing end for Malawi, ranked 153rd globally. Despite their remarkable run to the final, Malawi’s journey ended in defeat. The Chawinga sisters, Tabitha and Temwa, had powered Malawi to the final by scoring nine goals between them but were unable to secure victory against Cameroon.
The final match was witnessed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who is currently facing challenges in his position, as well as by Confederation of African Football president Patrice Motsepe and first vice-president Fouzi Lekjaa. The leadership of CAF has shown support for Infantino amidst his recent controversies.
Malawi, the lowest-ranked team in the tournament, had an incredible run, defeating defending champions Nigeria, as well as Egypt, Ghana, and Algeria to reach the final. The Scorchers started the final match strongly, with the attacking prowess of the Chawing
a sisters creating early challenges for Cameroon.
However, as the match progressed, Cameroon found their rhythm, taking the lead in the 20th minute through a headed goal by Ngah. Eto doubled the lead shortly after, and Ngah scored again just before halftime. Despite missing a chance for a hat-trick, Ngah’s contributions were pivotal to Cameroon’s success.
By reaching the semi-finals, both Cameroon and Malawi, along with third-placed Algeria and Morocco, earned spots in the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. There’s potential for additional African representation as South Africa and Ghana, both quarter-finalists in the WAFCON, have chances to qualify through inter-continental play-offs.