Star Cameroon goalkeeper Bihina faces Malawi’s prolific Chawinga sisters in WAFCON final
JOHANNESBURG: Prolific sisters Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga have been instrumental in transforming Malawi from no-hopers to giant killers to finalists at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The Malawian Scorchers scored 12 goals en route to the title decider against Cameroon on Sunday with Temwa from Kansas City Current claiming five and Tabitha from Lyon four. Opposing them in Rabat will be Michaely Bihina, the outstanding goalkeeper at the tournament, who has played a key role as the Indomitable Lionesses reached the final. The 22-year-old from famed Portuguese club Benfica saved four penalties in the semifinal victory over Morocco — one in extra time and three in the subsequent shootout. It promises to be an intriguing showdown between Malawi, who have in three of their five matches thusfar scored three goals (Nigeria (3-2) Egypt (3-1) and Algeria (3-1)), and Cameroon, who have conceded only twice in five games. Malawi are ranked 153rd in the world — 82 places below Cameroon — and it would be the greatest upset in the 28-year history of the WAFCON if they triumph. “Qualifying for the final is an incredible achievement. Our victories mean a lot to the people of Malawi,” younger sister Temwa told reporters. “Many of the headlines reflect the goals Tabitha and I have scored, but we are just part of a very talented group of footballers.” Tabitha, at 30 three years older than Temwa, also emphasized the importance of teamwork in reaching the final. - ‘Special’ - “Temwa and I will never succeed without our teammates.
