Malawi women’s football team has achieved what many would describe as the unimaginable.
In their first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) appearance, they have made it to the final, and they did so with swagger, confidence, and unmatched resolve.
They beat Algeria 3-1 in the semi-final in Morocco’s capital Rabat on Wednesday, August 12, to book a date in the finals with Cameroon, who shocked the hosts Morocco 3-1 on penalties following a goalless draw in extra-time on Wednesday.
Historically, Cameroon are a significant side in WAFCON. They have made 13 appearances in the competition, finishing thrice as runners-up – in 2004, 2014, and 2016. In all those finals, they lost to Nigeria.
On course for golden boot award
Interestingly, in the other 2026 WAFCON semi-final fixture, all Malawi’s three goals against Algeria were scored by biological sisters – 27-year-old Temwa Chawinga and 30-year-old Tabitha Chawinga, who bagged a brace (two goals).
Tabitha, who wears the number 11 jersey, is the Malawian women’s team captain, while Temwa, who wears the number 10 jersey, is the vice-captain.
The siblings are also on course for the golden boot award. Temwa’s five goals place her on top of the list, alongside Zambia’s Barbra Banda. Tabitha has bagged four goals, ahead of the final on Sunday, August 16.
At club level, Tabitha plays for Olympique Lyonnais in France, while Temwa plays for Kansas City Current in the United States.
Malawi’s president confident of victory
Both Malawi and Cameroon will be seeking to win the WAFCON title for the first time in their respective histories.
The only three teams that have lifted the WAFCON trophy so far, are record-holders Nigeria (10 times), Equatorial Guinea (twice), and South Africa (once).
Will the Scorchers (Malawi) stun the Indomitable Lionesses (Cameroon) in the final on Sunday to close a fairytale display at the 2026 WAFCON?
Malawi’s President Prof. Peter Mutharika is confident of victory, saying on Wednesday: “Now, only 90 minutes separate us from claiming the ultimate prize in African women’s football.”
