By Burnett Munthali
RABAT, Morocco — Cameroon defeated Malawi 3–0 in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final, ending the Scorchers’ remarkable debut campaign and securing the continental championship. A fourth Cameroon goal was initially celebrated late in the match but was subsequently disallowed, leaving the official score at 3–0.
This reporter, Burnett Munthali, monitored the match through a live television broadcast from the WAFCON final in Rabat.
Cameroon established control early, scoring twice before adding a third goal before half-time. Malawi found themselves under sustained pressure and struggled to reproduce the attacking intensity and composure that had carried them through their historic run to the final.
The Scorchers’ biggest difficulty was their distribution. Malawi frequently relied on long passes, many of which were inaccurate, intercepted or played out of the field. The approach made it difficult for the team to maintain possession and build sustained attacks through midfield.
After the interval, Malawi showed greater determination and improved defensively. Temwa Chawinga came close to finding the net but failed to convert the opportunity, while the Cameroonian defence continued to restrict Malawi’s attacking options.
Tabitha Chawinga was particularly well contained by the Cameroonian defence, with little space given to the Malawian star to turn, accelerate or create opportunities. Temwa also faced close attention whenever she attempted to carry the ball into dangerous areas.
Malawi’s defensive organisation improved in the second half, but gaps in marking and a lack of coordination continued to create problems. Cameroon repeatedly regained possession following Malawian clearances and maintained pressure.
Possession was relatively close at one stage, with Cameroon holding 52% and Malawi 48%, but the difference was in efficiency. Cameroon converted their opportunities, while Malawi struggled to create clear chances against a disciplined defence.
The late Cameroon goal that appeared to make it 4–0 was ruled out, confirming the final score as Cameroon 3–0 Malawi.
Individual Honours
Malawi’s outstanding tournament was further recognised through individual honours. Temwa Chawinga won the Golden Boot, finishing as the tournament’s leading scorer.
Cameroon’s Monique Ngo was named Player of the Tournament for her outstanding contribution to the champions’ successful campaign.
Malawi will return home with silver medals, while Cameroon celebrate their triumph as African champions.
The Scorchers may have fallen short in the final, but their extraordinary journey has elevated Malawi’s women’s football to a new level and provided a powerful platform for the future.
Final Score
Cameroon 3–0 Malawi
Champions: Cameroon
Runners-up: Malawi
Golden Boot: Temwa Chawinga
Player of the Tournament: Monique Ngo
