Cameroon and Malawi Advance to WAFCON Semifinals, Eliminating Nigeria
Defending champions Nigeria were knocked out of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations after losing to Cameroon. Malawi also secured a historic victory, qualifying for their first-ever FIFA Women's World Cup by reaching the semifinals. Both Cameroon and Malawi will now compete for a spot in the tournament final.
Malawi's debut WAFCON campaign has been remarkable, as they entered the tournament ranked 153rd globally and had never previously qualified. They topped their group after stunning Nigeria and beating Egypt, despite a loss to Zambia, before overturning Ghana's early goal with a deflected strike and a late winner.
Cameroon's victory relied on a 19-year-old's free kick and a goalkeeper's acrobatic saves. Nigeria introduced star Asisat Oshoala late, but she was unfit to start. This result marks only Cameroon's second win over Nigeria in 14 WAFCON meetings, ending the champions' title defense.
These results could significantly reshape women's football development across Africa. Malawi's World Cup qualification may inspire grassroots investment in smaller football nations, while Nigeria's early exit could prompt a reassessment of their domestic league and player pathways. For Cameroon and Algeria, semifinal runs may boost national pride and attract sponsorship, potentially improving professional opportunities for female athletes in these countries.