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. Under the leadership of Valentine Nguele, who took charge just months before the tournament, the Indomitable Lionesses showcased a blend of tactical discipline and individual brilliance. Marie Ngah Manga’s clinical finishing, coupled with Michaely Bihina’s heroics in goal, were standout moments. But it’s the team’s collective resilience that truly stands out. Beating Nigeria in the quarterfinals and outlasting Morocco in a penalty shootout en route to the final? That’s not just luck—it’s a testament to a squad that refused to be defined by their ranking or past failures.
One thing that immediately stands out is Malawi’s journey to the final. Ranked 153rd in the world, the Flames defied all odds to reach this stage, relying heavily on the Chawinga sisters’ attacking prowess. Their semi-final win over Algeria was a masterclass in counterattacking football. Yet, in the final, Cameroon’s midfield, marshaled by Monique Ngock, effectively neutralized Malawi’s key threats. This raises a deeper question: Can teams like Malawi sustain their momentum beyond a single tournament? Or will they fade back into obscurity?
From my perspective, CAF’s decision to expand WAFCON to 16 teams was a game-changer. It allowed nations like Malawi, Algeria, and even Morocco to step into the spotlight and challenge the established order. What many people don’t realize is that this expansion isn’t just about increasing the number of participants—it’s about democratizing the sport, giving more nations a platform to develop and compete. If you take a step back and think about it, this could be the beginning of a new era for African women’s football, one where the gap between the elite and the rest begins to close.
A detail that I find especially interesting is the role of leadership in Cameroon’s success. Samuel Eto’o, the Cameroon Football Federation president, wasn’t just a spectator—he was an emotional figurehead, celebrating every goal with unbridled passion. His presence in the stands symbolized a federation finally investing in its women’s team after years of neglect. What this really suggests is that success in football isn’t just about talent on the pitch; it’s about the infrastructure, support, and belief behind the scenes.
Looking ahead, the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil promises to be a showcase for African football. With Cameroon, Malawi, Morocco, and Algeria all qualifying, the continent will have more representation than ever before. But here’s the thing: these teams aren’t just there to make up the numbers. Algeria, under Farid Benstiti, has shown remarkable progress, while Morocco’s hosting of WAFCON has elevated their program to new heights. In my opinion, Africa could be the dark horse of next year’s World Cup, with the potential to pull off some major upsets.
What this tournament has taught me is that football is as much about narratives as it is about results. Cameroon’s victory isn’t just a win—it’s a story of redemption, of a nation finally breaking free from the shadow of past final defeats. Malawi’s run isn’t just a fluke—it’s a testament to the power of belief and the impact of strategic investment in women’s football. As we look to the future, one thing is clear: African women’s football is no longer on the periphery. It’s front and center, and it’s here to stay.
