Malawi’s Women’s National Football Team, the Scorchers, are preparing to face Cameroon in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final at Rabat Olympic Stadium, Morocco. This marks Malawi’s first appearance in a WAFCON final after a stunning 3-1 semi-final victory over Algeria on August 12.
Coach Lovemore Fazili expressed strong confidence in his squad, emphasizing their readiness and determination to claim the title. “We are no longer underdogs at this stage,” Fazili said. “The players are mentally and physically prepared to write history.”
Malawi entered the tournament ranked 153rd globally—the lowest among the 16 competing teams—and were placed in a challenging group alongside defending champions Nigeria, Zambia, and Egypt. Despite this, they have impressed by scoring 12 goals, with key contributions from the Chawinga sisters, Temwa and Tabitha, who have tallied five and four goals respectively.
Cameroon, making their fourth WAFCON final appearance, advanced after a penalty shootout win against hosts Morocco. The Indomitable Lionesses’ goalkeeper Michaely Bihina has been pivotal, notably saving four penalties in the semi-final.
Fazili praised the leadership and humility of the Chawinga sisters, who have been instrumental in Malawi’s success. Defender Ireen Khumalo echoed the team’s ambition: “We respect Cameroon but are focused on winning. We want to bring the trophy home and encourage our fans to keep supporting us.”
Cameroon’s coach Valentine Nguele acknowledged Malawi’s physicality and stressed the need for tactical discipline to secure victory. Malawi will miss midfielder Rose Kadzere, suspended after a red card in the semi-final.
The WAFCON champions will receive a record $2 million prize, doubling the previous tournament’s reward, while runners-up and third-place finishers will earn $750,000 and $550,000 respectively.
