AFCON 2025
Cameroon have made history by winning their first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title after defeating tournament debutants Malawi 3-0 in Sunday’s final at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
The Indomitable Lionesses delivered a clinical performance, scoring all three goals in a dominant first-half display to finally end their long wait for continental glory.
Marie Ngah Manga was the standout performer, scoring twice to take her tournament tally to five goals, while Naomi Eto also got on the scoresheet as Cameroon took complete control of the final before half-time.
The triumph is a significant moment for Cameroon, who had previously lost three WAFCON finals in 2004, 2014 and 2016.
Cameroon’s journey to the title was also remarkable. Initially failing to qualify for the tournament, they were handed a second chance after the competition was expanded from 12 to 16 teams. They seized the opportunity and transformed into one of the tournament’s most disciplined and efficient sides.
For Malawi, the defeat brought an end to a remarkable debut campaign. The Scorchers, who entered the tournament as the lowest-ranked team, defied expectations to reach the final, inspired by sisters Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga.
Cameroon’s victory makes them only the fourth nation to win the WAFCON title, joining Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea and South Africa.
Cameroon’s Monique Ngock was named Player of the Tournament, while teammate Michaely Bihina claimed the Best Goalkeeper award.
The Golden Boot was shared by Inès Konan of Ivory Coast, Malawi’s Temwa Chawinga and Zambia’s Barbra Banda, who all finished with five goals.
Cameroon, Malawi, Algeria and hosts Morocco have also secured qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Final standings:
- Champions: Cameroon
- Runners-up: Malawi
- Third place: Algeria
- Player of the Tournament: Monique Ngock
- Best Goalkeeper: Michaely Bihina
- Top Scorers: Inès Konan, Temwa Chawinga, Barbra Banda; 5 goals each
