Cameroon rise, Nigeria fall and NWSL star Temwa Chawinga takes over: The defining stories of WAFCON 2026
Cameroon won the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, marking a historic shift in African women's soccer. The tournament also saw the emergence of new stars like Malawi's Temwa Chawinga and Cameroon goalkeeper Michaely Bihina.
Why it matters
The tournament's success and the rise of underdog teams highlight the growing global competitiveness and visibility of women's sports.
Temwa Chawinga wins Golden Boot, Cameroon makes history winning WAFCON and players like goalkeeper Michaely Bihina, and defenders Yvana Makana and Maeva Nyadjou showcase young talent across tournament.
By the time Cameroon lifted the Women's Africa Cup of Nations trophy, the established order of African women's soccer had been turned upside down.
The Indomitable Lionesses entered the tournament only because it had expanded from 12 to 16 teams. They left as champions. Cameroon eliminated 10-time winners Nigeria, survived a penalty shootout against host Morocco behind 22-year-old goalkeeper Michaely Bihina, and completed its remarkable run with a 3-0 victory over Malawi in the final.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in