Women's AFCON 2026: The golden boot race goes down to the final

16.08.26 FT Africa Women Cup of Nations

Cameroon W

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Malawi W

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Despite being knocked out in the group stage, Barbra Banda still sits atop the scorers' table at the Women's AFCON Morocco 2026. The Zambian star has tallied 5 goals, including a remarkable four-goal haul. But here's the catch: the final is approaching, and her rivals are surging. The golden boot trophy will only be decided in the last match.

Banda leads, but she's not safe yet

Five goals. That’s the tally keeping the Zambian captain at the summit for now. She racked them up quickly in just three games, highlighted by a stunning four-goal performance against Egypt in a 6-0 rout. But since Zambia’s elimination, Banda can no longer add to her total—and the chasing pack is closing in fast.

Malawi and Cameroon charge back

With her goal against Algeria (3-1), Temwa Chawinga has drawn level with Zambia’s goal machine, also reaching 5 goals. Her sister, Tabitha Chawinga, capitalized as well in the semi-final. The Malawi captain fired a brace against Algeria, taking her tally to 4 goals. The two Malawian stars have Sunday’s final to play—and anything can happen.

Ivory Coast’s Inès Konan also stands at 4 goals. Cameroon’s Ngah Manga and South Africa’s Thembi Kgatlana each have 3 to their names.

A final with double the stakes

Sunday’s showdown is Malawi versus Cameroon for the title. But it’s also a head-to-head between top strikers. Tabitha wants to overtake Banda. Ngah is aiming to draw level. Temwa wants to pull away from the pack. The golden boot will be played for across the 90 minutes of the final. For now, Barbra Banda remains the provisional queen.

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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