In the semifinals, Malawi triumphed over Algeria with a score of 3-1, led by standout player Tabitha Chawinga, who scored two goals. Meanwhile, Cameroon advanced to the final after winning a penalty shootout 3-1 against Morocco, following a scoreless match.
All four semifinalists have secured spots in the upcoming Women’s World Cup in Brazil next summer, marking a historic debut for both Malawi and Algeria. Morocco, having reached the round of 16 in 2023, will make its second World Cup appearance, while Cameroon has participated in the 2015 and 2019 tournaments.
Goalkeeper Michaely Bihina played a crucial role in Cameroon’s advancement, stopping three penalty attempts from Morocco, while Myriam Maéva Nyadjou converted the decisive kick. Notably, Morocco, which has reached the WAFCON semifinals for the third time, dominated possession during regulation time. In a pivotal moment during the second extra time, a foul by Nyadjou resulted in a penalty kick for Morocco; however, Bihina successfully blocked the attempt from Fatima Tagnaout.
In the quarterfinals, Cameroon achieved a remarkable victory over Nigeria, defeating them 1-0—marking their second victory against Nigeria in 14 WAFCON meetings. More than 19,000 fans attended the match held at Moulay Al Hassan Stadium.
Tabitha Chawinga’s impressive performance in the semifinals included opening the scoring in the 33rd minute with a powerful left-footed strike, followed by her sister Temwa Chawinga scoring just before halftime. Despite Malawi being reduced to ten players after a red card to Rose Kadzere, they maintained their lead. Ikram Adjabi scored for Algeria in the 60th minute but ultimately, Tabitha Chawinga sealed the match with her second goal in the 76th minute, ensuring Malawi’s spot in the final.
As Malawi and Cameroon prepare for a historic final, the competition remains fierce, with Nigeria gearing up to face South Africa and Ghana set to meet Ivory Coast, as the quartet seeks further qualification for the World Cup through intercontinental playoffs.
