A loss, but a historic win: Scorchers end WAFCON with silver

Malawi’s Scorchers may have fallen short of the WAFCON title, but their remarkable run has put the country’s women’s football firmly on the global map, as they return home with silver medals.

Malawi finished the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) as runners-up after suffering a 3-0 loss to Cameroon at Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.

The most improved side showcased quality and skill. Credit goes to the debutants who rose to become continental heroines, and who have secured Malawi’s historic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil despite the final loss.

Malawi’s forward star Temwa Chawinga won the Golden Boot at the tournament.

Temwa won Golden Boot Award

After the final whistle, Scorchers Head Coach Lovemore Fazili said the tournament was a learning experience that will help the team improve ahead of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Fazili said he is proud of his players who showcased skill, and that he is happy to have made history with the team.

The Scorchers beat Nigeria and Egypt, and lost to Zambia in the group stages. They then defeated Ghana 2-1 in the quarter-finals and beat Algeria 3-1 in the semi-finals to book a place in the final.

Cameroon took charge over Malawi in the final of Sunday 16th August 2026 with a brace from Marie Ngah Manga and a goal from Naomi Eto’o to end Malawi’s historic dream.

Cameroon, who have finished as three time runners-up in past finals, clinched the title on the back of a stunning performance from 22-year-old goalkeeper Michaely Bihina, She conceded just one goal in six matches and was named Best Goalkeeper.

Algeria was named the Most Fair Play Team of the tournament.

Malawi may have lost the WAFCON final, but the Scorchers will return home as champions of a different kind, having made history by reaching the final and finishing as runners-up.

Their silver-medal achievement has captured the nation’s imagination, with the team now set for a heroes’ welcome as Malawians celebrate a campaign that has lifted the country’s women’s football onto the global stage.