Cameroon Clinches Historic Victory at Womens Africa Cup of Nations

Rabat: Cameroon defeated tournament debutant Malawi in the final of the Womens Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday, winning the trophy for the first time. The Indomitable Lionesses, who failed to qualify for the previous edition of the tournament, had lost on their last three appearances in the final - all to 10-time winner Nigeria. According to France24.com, Cameroon, who initially failed to qualify for the 2026 Womens Africa Cup of Nations, was given a second chance when the tournament's team roster expanded. The team seized the opportunity, defeating fairytale finalists Malawi 3-0 to claim the championship title. Marie Ngah scored twice and Naomi Eto added a goal in the final held in Rabat, marking a significant triumph for the Indomitable Lionesses, who had previously finished as runners-up three times. Cameroon's journey to victory was marked by initial setbacks, having lost both home and away matches to Algeria in the final qualifying round. However, the tournament organizers expanded the competition from 12 to 16 teams, allowing the four highest-ranked losers, including Cameroon, to participate. Morocco hosted the event for the third consecutive time. Malawi's journey to the final was a remarkable feat, as the team was ranked 153rd globally. The Chawinga sisters, captain Tabitha and Temwa, were instrumental, scoring nine goals between them. Despite their impressive run, the final match ended in disappointment as Cameroon emerged victorious. Among the spectators was embattled FIFA president Gianni Infantino, accompanied by Confederation of African Football president Patrice Motsepe and first vice-president Fouzi Lekjaa. The CAF leadership has supported Infantino amidst criticism for his previous plans to sell World Cup stakes to private investors. Malawi, the lowest-ranked team in the tournament, showcased impressive performances by defeating defending champions Nigeria, Egypt, Ghana, and Algeria to reach the final. The Scorchers began the final with vigor, with the Chawinga sisters creating several threats . However, Cameroon took the lead in the 20th minute, with Ngah scoring the opening goal after a rebound. Cameroon extended their lead with a second goal by Eto in the 29th minute, followed by Ngah's second goal just before halftime. Although Ngah missed a chance to complete a hat-trick early in the second half, Cameroon maintained their lead, and Malawi's efforts were insufficient to alter the outcome. By advancing to the semi-finals, Cameroon, Malawi, third-placed Algeria, and Morocco qualified for the 2027 Womens World Cup in Brazil. Additionally, South Africa and Ghana, who lost in the WAFCON quarter-finals, secured spots in inter-continental play-offs, potentially increasing the number of African teams in the World Cup.