Cameroon, Malawi on the Brink of History

Cameroon and Malawi stand on the cusp of making history as they prepare to face each other in the final of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations. Both nations are seeking their first major international football title in what has been a surprising and compelling tournament.

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I’ve watched some of their games, but I’ve never seen the two sisters live. I’ll study them to see how they play, and I’ll try to do my best against Malawi.

Malawi, participating in the WAFCON for the first time, has defied expectations. After an initial stumble, they have emerged as strong contenders, notably defeating perennial powerhouse Nigeria, the 10-time champions, 3-2. Their impressive run saw them top their group, signaling their arrival as a competitive force on the continental stage.

Cameroon, known as the Indomitable Lionesses, finds themselves in an unexpected position. Despite originally failing to qualify for the tournament, an expansion of the competition provided them with a second chance. They capitalized on this opportunity, reaching the final after a dramatic penalty shootout victory against hosts Morocco in the semifinals, following a goalless draw. Their journey included a quarterfinal win over Nigeria, where goalkeeper Michaely Bihina was instrumental.

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I like the big games. I like to play in the big games because I know I’ll make a lot of saves.

Bihina, a breakout star at 22, is now preparing for her biggest challenge yet: facing Malawi's lethal strike partnership, Temwa and Tabitha Chawinga. These sisters have combined for nine goals in the tournament. "I like the big games. I like to play in the big games because I know I’ll make a lot of saves," Bihina stated, expressing her motivation to perform against top talent. She has been in exceptional form, keeping clean sheets and saving crucial penalties, including three in the semifinal shootout. Her impressive performances have kept Cameroon unbeaten for over 360 minutes in the tournament.

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This is motivation. My teammates continue to motivate me. Every time they tell me: ‘you can do it, because you’re a good goalkeeper’. I try to be humble, I don’t want to show everything I can do, but they push me every time. It’s thanks to my teammates.