Kick-off is scheduled for 19:00 GMT (20:00 local time) in what promises to be one of the most intriguing finals in the tournament’s history.
A Final No One Predicted
Neither side was among the pre-tournament favourites. Cameroon only entered the competition after CAF expanded the field to 16 teams, having previously lost a qualifying play-off to Algeria. Malawi, ranked 153rd in the world and appearing at their first-ever WAFCON, have been the genuine surprise package of the competition.
Both teams have already secured qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil by reaching the final. The remaining prize is the ultimate one: becoming African champions for the first time and collecting the $2 million winners’ cheque.
Cameroon’s Path: Defence and Goalkeeping Heroics
The Indomitable Lionesses have built their campaign on organisation and resilience. They topped their group before producing two of the tournament’s biggest shocks: a 1-0 quarter-final victory over defending champions Nigeria and a penalty shootout win over hosts Morocco in the semi-finals after 120 goalless minutes.
At the heart of their success has been 22-year-old goalkeeper Michaely Bihina. The Benfica shot-stopper saved four penalties against Morocco — one in extra time and three in the shootout — to send Cameroon into the final. Their defensive record has been outstanding, with only two goals conceded from open play across the entire tournament.
Coach Valentine Nguele will rely on that solid foundation once again, knowing that containing Malawi’s potent attack will be the key to ending Cameroon’s long wait for the title. The Lionesses have reached the final on three previous occasions (2004, 2014 and 2016) without lifting the trophy.
Malawi’s Fairytale: The Chawinga Sisters Lead the Way
Malawi’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. They announced themselves with a stunning 3-2 group-stage victory over Nigeria, followed by a 3-1 win over Egypt. A narrow loss to Zambia did not prevent them topping the group on head-to-head records.
In the knockouts they defeated Ghana 2-1 in the quarter-finals and Algeria 3-1 in the semi-finals. The Scorchers have scored 12 goals in the tournament, with the formidable sister duo of Temwa Chawinga (five goals) and Tabitha Chawinga (four goals) providing the bulk of the firepower.
Temwa, who plays for Kansas City Current in the NWSL, and Tabitha, of Lyon, have terrorised defences with their pace, movement and clinical finishing. Coach Lovemore Fazili’s side play with high intensity and directness, making them a constant threat on the counter-attack.
Contrasting Styles
The final presents a classic clash of styles. Cameroon are organised, compact and difficult to break down, relying on defensive discipline and the brilliance of Bihina. Malawi are expansive, high-scoring and capable of blowing teams away in short bursts.
Cameroon have scored only five goals in the tournament compared to Malawi’s 12, underlining the different approaches. The question is whether the Lionesses’ defensive steel can neutralise the Chawinga sisters, or whether Malawi’s attacking quality will finally overwhelm a side that has frustrated every opponent so far.
What is at Stake
Beyond the trophy and the prize money, both nations stand on the brink of history. A first continental title would transform the status of women’s football in their respective countries and cement the legacies of the players and coaches involved.
For Cameroon, it would end years of near-misses. For Malawi, it would complete one of the greatest underdog stories in African football history.
Match Information
- Fixture: Cameroon vs Malawi
- Competition: TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 Final
- Venue: Moulay El Hassan Stadium, Rabat
- Kick-off: 19:00 GMT / 20:00 local time
- Date: Sunday, 16 August 2026
The stage is set for a memorable final. Two teams that were not expected to be here will now contest the ultimate prize, with African football history waiting to be written in Rabat.