Cameroon crowned WAFCON champions for the first time, Malawi’s fairytale debut ends in final heartbreak

In a historic moment, Cameroon's national women's football team, known as the Indomitable Lionesses, have claimed their first Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title. In a decisive 3-0 victory over Malawi's debutants, the Lionesses secured the championship at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat. Marie Ngah Manga and Naomi Eto were instrumental in the win, with Manga scoring twice and Eto adding a goal.

Malawi's journey to the final was a remarkable feat. As the tournament debutants, they managed to secure a spot in the 16-team competition after initially failing to qualify. They then triumphed over Nigeria in the quarter-finals and Morocco in the semi-finals, overcoming Nigeria and Ghana along the way. Their victory in the final also ensured their qualification for the 2023 Women's World Cup.

The individual awards followed the team's triumph. Midfielder Monique Ngock was named Player of the Tournament, while goalkeeper Michaely Bihina, who made crucial saves including a penalty shootout heroics, earned the best goalkeeper award. Golden Boot was awarded to Malawi's Temwa Chawinga, who finished as the top scorer with five goals and two assists. Despite Malawi's fairytale debut ending in heartbreak, their achievement is of great significance, as it secured the country's first ever Women's World Cup qualification.