Cameroon claimed their first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title on Sunday, defeating tournament finalists Malawi 3-0 in a decisive match held in Rabat. The victory marks a historic milestone for the Indomitable Lionesses, who had previously finished as runners-up in the 2004, 2014, and 2016 editions of the tournament.
The path to the trophy was unconventional for Cameroon. They had originally failed to qualify after losing both home and away matches to Algeria during the final qualifying round. However, they were granted a second chance when organizers expanded the tournament field from 12 to 16 teams, allowing the four highest-ranked losers to enter the competition.
For Malawi, the final represented a heartbreaking end to a fairytale run. Ranked 153rd in the world, the Scorchers had stunned observers by reaching the title decider, largely fueled by the performance of the Chawinga sisters, captain Tabitha and Temwa, who combined for nine goals throughout the event. Their journey included victories over defending champions Nigeria, as well as Egypt, Ghana, and Algeria.
Despite a strong start from Malawi, who utilized the pace and power of the Chawinga sisters to create early pressure, they were unable to find the back of the net. Cameroon gradually seized control of the game, breaking the deadlock in the 20th minute. A cross deflected off Malawi goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo onto the crossbar, allowing Marie Ngah to head in the rebound for her fourth goal of the tournament.
Cameroon extended their lead in the 29th minute through Naomi Eto. With her back to the goal, Eto executed a sharp swivel before firing the ball into the corner of the net. Just before the halftime whistle, Ngah struck again, heading home a cross from Eto to put the Indomitable Lionesses 3-0 ahead.
The second half saw fewer scoring opportunities, though Ngah missed a chance to complete her hat-trick after rounding the goalkeeper but firing wide. Malawi managed to contain the Cameroonian attack as the game progressed, with Temwa Chawinga coming close with a low shot following a goalmouth scramble, but the scoreline remained unchanged.
The match was attended by several high-profile officials, including FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who watched from the stands alongside Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Patrice Motsepe and first vice-president Fouzi Lekjaa. Infantino is currently navigating significant scrutiny regarding his leadership and proposed plans to sell World Cup stakes to private investors.
The tournament also served as a critical pathway to the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. By advancing to the semi-finals, Cameroon, Malawi, third-placed Algeria, and Morocco all secured their spots in the global tournament.
The African representation in Brazil could grow even further. Losing WAFCON quarter-finalists South Africa and Ghana have both qualified for inter-continental play-offs, offering them a potential path to join the four nations already confirmed for the 2027 World Cup. The report also notes that cameroon, who failed to qualify for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations only to get a second chance, beat fairytale finalists Malawi 3-0 on Sunday to be crowned champions.
