The recent WAFCON 2026 final between Cameroon and Malawi wasn’t just a football match—it was a statement. Cameroon’s 3-0 victory wasn’t merely about lifting their first-ever title; it was about shattering expectations and redefining the hierarchy of African women’s football. Personally, I think this tournament marks a turning point, a moment where the continent’s underdogs proved they’re no longer content to play second fiddle to traditional powerhouses like Nigeria and South Africa.
What makes this particularly fascinating is how Cameroon’s triumph unfolded. Marie Ngah Manga’s clinical finishing was the headline, but it was the team’s collective resilience and tactical discipline that truly stood out. Under Valentine Nguele, who took charge just months ago, the Indomitable Lionesses transformed into a well-oiled machine. Their quarter-final upset of Nigeria and penalty shootout win over Morocco weren’t flukes—they were the result of a side that believed in its system.
One thing that immediately stands out is the role of goalkeeper Michaely Bihina. Her performances throughout the tournament were nothing short of heroic. Nine saves against Nigeria, a penalty stop in extra time, and three more in the shootout against Morocco—she was the backbone of Cameroon’s success. What many people don’t realize is that goalkeepers often go unnoticed in football narratives, but Bihina’s contributions were game-changing. Her presence gave Cameroon the confidence to play boldly, knowing they had a last line of defense they could trust.
Malawi, on the other hand, came into the final as the fairy-tale story. Ranked 153rd in the world, they defied all odds to reach this stage, thanks in large part to the Chawinga sisters. Temwa Chawinga, in particular, had been their talisman, but Cameroon’s midfield, led by Monique Ngock, effectively neutralized her threat. This raises a deeper question: can Malawi sustain this momentum? Their journey was inspiring, but consistency will be the real test.
From my perspective, CAF’s decision to expand the tournament to 16 teams was a masterstroke. It allowed nations like Malawi and Algeria to showcase their talent and compete on a bigger stage. This expansion isn’t just about numbers—it’s about democratizing African football, giving more teams a shot at glory. If you take a step back and think about it, this is how global football evolves: by creating opportunities for the overlooked.
Looking ahead, the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil feels like the next frontier for these teams. Cameroon, Malawi, Morocco, and Algeria will all be there, and I’m particularly intrigued by Algeria’s progress. Farid Benstiti’s side has shown remarkable improvement since the last WAFCON, and they could be the dark horse in Brazil.
What this really suggests is that African women’s football is on the cusp of a new era. The old guard is being challenged, and a new generation of players and coaches is rising. Cameroon’s victory isn’t just their triumph—it’s a win for every team that’s ever been written off.
In the end, WAFCON 2026 wasn’t just a tournament; it was a manifesto. It declared that African football is diverse, dynamic, and full of untapped potential. As Samuel Eto’o celebrated wildly in the stands, it wasn’t just Cameroon’s victory he was cheering—it was the future of the sport he was applauding. And personally, I can’t wait to see what comes next.
