2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations: Malawi's journey to the final is more than just a surprise

16.08.26 15:00 Africa Women Cup of Nations

Cameroon W

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Malawi W

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On Sunday in Rabat, Malawi will play their first-ever Women's Africa Cup of Nations final. Entering as tournament newcomers, the Scorchers seized the top spot in Group C ahead of Nigeria and punched their ticket to the 2027 World Cup. This was no fleeting upset—it was a team that built its success step by step, game after game.

Group C dominance against the continent's giants

Malawi opened their campaign with a bold statement, edging reigning champions and ten-time winners Nigeria 3-2 in a thrilling encounter. They then dispatched Egypt 3-1 to underline their ambitions, before stumbling 1-2 against Zambia. These results saw the Scorchers finish top of Group C ahead of Nigeria, sending a clear warning to all of Africa.

Eliminating Ghana and a first-ever World Cup qualification

In the quarterfinals, Malawi overcame Ghana 2-1. Despite trailing early, Malawi's players turned the tables on the Black Queens. Beyond reaching the semifinals, this victory handed the nation its first ticket to the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil. It’s a historic moment for a team experiencing the tournament for the very first time.

Taming Algeria and reaching the final

The semifinal was another showcase. A 3-1 win against Algeria. Disciplined team play, rapid transitions, and ruthless attacking efficiency. Malawi became the first team to reach the final in their maiden appearance since the tournament began in 1998.

Tabitha and Temwa: The Scorchers' driving force

In Malawi, everything revolves around the Chawinga sisters. Temwa has netted 5 goals in the tournament, while captain Tabitha has scored 4. The duo combined for a hat-trick against Nigeria and repeated the feat against Algeria. Of Malawi’s 12 goals in the competition, 9 bear their signature. The Chawinga name is Malawi's ultimate weapon.

A date with history

On Sunday at 19:00 GMT, the Scorchers will challenge Cameroon at Moulay Hassan Stadium for the title and a record $2 million prize. Malawi are no longer an underdog story. This is a team that has grown with every match—and now dreams of a first continental crown.

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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