2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations: Cameroon knock out Morocco on penalties to join Malawi in the final

12.08.26 AP Africa Women Cup of Nations

Morocco W

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Cameroon W

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The Moroccan dream ends here. Cameroon eliminate the host nation after a goalless 0-0 draw, then prevail 4-2 on penalties, booking their spot alongside Malawi in the final of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat. It's a historic qualification for the "Indomitable Lionesses," who have capitalized on the tournament's expansion to 16 teams.

Fiery second half and electrifying crowd

Morocco gave it everything. Roared on by a massive home crowd, the Atlas Lionesses pressed relentlessly for the full 90 minutes and into extra time. They dominated possession, unleashed wave after wave of attacks, fired in crosses and peppered the Cameroonian goal with shots.

But the Cameroonian defensive wall held firm. Cameroon played with heart and remarkable discipline. With grit and resilience, Valentine Ngouile's players showed exactly why they've conceded only twice in five matches.

Bihina... heroine of the night

The turning point came in the 118th minute. Morocco awarded a penalty. Fatima Tagnaout stepped up. Michaely Bihina produced a stunning save. The stadium held its breath.

Then came the decisive moment. The Benfica goalkeeper was simply sensational, stopping three consecutive penalties from Kenza Chapelle, Mariam Atik, and Sakina Ouzraoui. Four saves in one night. Cameroon win 4-2 on penalties. Morocco bow out and miss a third consecutive final.

Showdown with Malawi awaits

On the other side, the "Scorchers" are already waiting after their 3-1 victory over Algeria, powered by goals from the Chawinga sisters. Cameroon were not originally qualified, but after the tournament expanded from 12 to 16 teams, the Lionesses seized their chance, and now they are in the final.

The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations final between Malawi and Cameroon will be played on Sunday at 19:00 GMT. Two epic stories, but only one trophy awaits the champion.

Nafongo TRAORE |

News Editorfr, ar, en

Nafongon Moussa TRAORE, Burkinabè de 25 ans, est passionné de football, est rédacteur pour Foot Africa et commentateur pour BurkiFoot.

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Morocco W

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Africa Women Cup of Nations