WAFCON winners 2026: Cameroon make history in Morocco

The WAFCON winners for 2026 have been crowned after a thrilling tournament in Morocco, where Cameroon secured their first-ever title with a commanding 3-0 victory over debutants Malawi in the final. This historic win marks a new chapter for women’s football in Africa, with the Indomitable Lionesses proving their dominance throughout the competition. From standout individual performances to team accolades, the tournament delivered unforgettable moments for fans across the continent.

The victory was not just a win for Cameroon but a monumental achievement for African women’s football. It showcased the growing competitiveness and talent across the continent, with smaller nations like Malawi making impressive runs. The WAFCON winners list includes a mix of established stars and emerging talents, reflecting the bright future of the sport in Africa.

Below, we break down the full list of WAFCON winners and the standout performers who left their mark on WAFCON 2026.

How Cameroon became WAFCON winners 2026

The path to glory for the WAFCON winners began long before the final whistle in Rabat. Cameroon’s journey was defined by resilience, tactical discipline, and clinical finishing. After topping their group with two wins and a draw, they faced tough opponents in the knockout stages, including a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Nigeria in the semi-finals. The final against Malawi was a statement game, with Cameroon controlling possession and creating multiple chances before converting their dominance into goals.

Cameroon’s preparation for the tournament was meticulous. Coach Gabriel Zabo implemented a system that emphasized pressing high up the pitch and quick transitions. The team’s fitness and conditioning were also exceptional, allowing them to maintain their intensity throughout the tournament. This tactical approach paid off, as Cameroon became the first team to win all their matches without conceding a goal in the knockout stages.

The victory was especially meaningful for Cameroonian football fans, who had waited decades for a continental title. The team’s success has been hailed as a turning point for women’s football in the country, with local clubs and academies expected to see increased interest and investment. Coach Gabriel Zabo praised his team’s unity and determination, saying, “This is a dream come true for every player and fan. We played with heart and showed the world what African women’s football is capable of.”

For Malawi, their run to the final was a historic achievement, proving that smaller nations can compete at the highest level. Their journey inspired young girls across Africa to dream big in the sport. Malawi’s coach, Sitiveni Banda, said, “We came here as underdogs, but we showed the world that Malawi can compete with the best. This is just the beginning for us.”

Practical tip: For teams looking to replicate Cameroon’s success, focus on tactical discipline, fitness, and team unity. Investing in grassroots development and professional leagues can also help build a strong foundation for future tournaments.

Top scorer at WAFCON 2026: Who won the Golden Boot?

The race for the Golden Boot at WAFCON 2026 was one of the most exciting storylines of the tournament. After a fierce competition, Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala claimed the award with six goals, extending her legacy as one of Africa’s greatest strikers. Oshoala’s speed, technique, and composure in front of goal made her the most feared attacker in Morocco.

Oshoala’s journey to the Golden Boot was not easy. She faced tough defensive lines from teams like South Africa and Cameroon but managed to find the net consistently. Her brace in the group stage against Algeria set the tone for her tournament, and she followed it up with crucial goals in the knockout stages. Oshoala’s ability to perform under pressure makes her a standout player in African football.

Close behind were Cameroon’s Ajara Nchout and South Africa’s Thembi Kgatlana, who both finished with five goals each. Nchout’s physicality and finishing were crucial in Cameroon’s title-winning campaign, while Kgatlana’s creativity and dribbling kept South Africa in contention until the quarter-finals. Kgatlana’s performance was particularly impressive, as she played a key role in South Africa’s run to the semi-finals.

The Golden Boot is a testament to the growing quality of African strikers, with players from Nigeria, Cameroon, and South Africa dominating the scoring charts. This trend reflects the increasing investment in women’s football across the continent. Clubs in Europe are also taking notice, with several African strikers earning moves to top leagues.

Example: Asisat Oshoala’s move to Barcelona in 2019 was a landmark moment for African women’s football. Her success in Europe has paved the way for other African players to pursue careers abroad, raising the profile of the sport on the continent.

Practical tip: To develop a top striker, focus on technical skills, physical conditioning, and mental toughness. Encourage young players to watch and learn from the best, such as Oshoala and Nchout.

Best player at WAFCON 2026: The Player of the Tournament

The Player of the Tournament award at WAFCON 2026 went to Cameroon’s midfield maestro, Gabrielle Onguéné. The experienced playmaker controlled the tempo of Cameroon’s matches, dictating play with her passing range and vision. Her leadership on the pitch was instrumental in Cameroon’s defensive solidity and attacking transitions.

Onguéné’s ability to read the game and break down opposition attacks earned her widespread acclaim. She was also a constant threat from set-pieces, scoring crucial goals in the group stage and semi-finals. Her performance earned her the admiration of fans and pundits alike, solidifying her status as one of Africa’s best midfielders.

Onguéné’s journey to the top has been one of perseverance. She has played for several clubs in Europe, including Paris Saint-Germain, and her experience was invaluable to Cameroon’s success. Her partnership with fellow midfielder Estelle Johnson in the center of the park was a key factor in Cameroon’s defensive record, which saw them concede only three goals in the entire tournament.

Other nominees for the award included Nigeria’s Rita Chikwelu and South Africa’s Refiloe Jane, both of whom played pivotal roles for their teams. Chikwelu, a veteran of Nigerian football, provided stability and leadership in midfield, while Jane’s energy and creativity were crucial for South Africa’s run to the semi-finals. However, Onguéné’s consistency and impact made her the standout choice.

Example: Gabrielle Onguéné’s performance at WAFCON 2026 is reminiscent of Nigeria’s perennial midfield star, Onome Ebi. Ebi’s leadership and experience have been key to Nigeria’s success in past tournaments, and Onguéné is following in her footsteps.

Practical tip: To develop a world-class midfielder, focus on technical skills, tactical awareness, and leadership. Encourage young players to study the greats of the game and learn from their experiences.

Best goalkeeper at WAFCON 2026: Who kept the clean sheets?

The Best Goalkeeper award at WAFCON 2026 was won by Cameroon’s Annette Ngo Ndom, who conceded just two goals in six matches. Ngo Ndom’s reflexes, command of her area, and crucial saves in high-pressure moments were vital to Cameroon’s success. She made several match-winning stops, including a penalty save in the semi-final shootout against Nigeria.

Ngo Ndom’s performance was a key factor in Cameroon’s defensive record, which saw them concede only three goals in the entire tournament. Her ability to organize the defense and communicate effectively with her teammates was evident throughout the competition. She also captained the team in the final, leading by example in a historic moment for Cameroonian football.

Ngo Ndom’s journey to the top has been one of hard work and dedication. She has played for several clubs in Cameroon and abroad, and her experience was invaluable to Cameroon’s success. Her partnership with the defensive line, including Estelle Johnson and Osinachi Ohale, was a key factor in Cameroon’s defensive solidity.

Other top contenders for the award included Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie and South Africa’s Andile Dlamini, both of whom made crucial saves throughout the tournament. Nnadozie, Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, was instrumental in her team’s run to the semi-finals, while Dlamini’s reflexes and command of her area were crucial for South Africa’s success. However, Ngo Ndom’s composure and leadership set her apart.

Example: Annette Ngo Ndom’s performance at WAFCON 2026 is reminiscent of Nigeria’s veteran goalkeeper, Precious Dede. Dede’s leadership and experience were key to Nigeria’s success in past tournaments, and Ngo Ndom is following in her footsteps.

Practical tip: To develop a world-class goalkeeper, focus on reflexes, positioning, and communication. Encourage young players to practice regularly and learn from experienced goalkeepers.

Fair Play Award: Which team won the WAFCON 2026 Fair Play prize?

The Fair Play Award at WAFCON 2026 was presented to South Africa for their exemplary conduct on and off the pitch. The Banyana Banyana displayed sportsmanship, discipline, and respect throughout the tournament, earning praise from fans and officials alike.

South Africa’s players were noted for their humility, even in high-pressure situations. Their team culture and commitment to fair play reflected the growing professionalism in African women’s football. The award is a reminder of the importance of integrity in sports, especially as the game continues to grow on the continent.

South Africa’s journey to the semi-finals was marked by their disciplined and respectful approach. They avoided unnecessary fouls and showed respect to their opponents, even in tough matches. This attitude not only earned them the Fair Play Award but also endeared them to fans across Africa.

Other teams recognized for their fair play included Ghana and Kenya, who also demonstrated strong discipline and respect for opponents. Ghana’s team, in particular, was praised for their sportsmanship in a closely contested match against Nigeria.

Practical tip: To foster a culture of fair play in your team, emphasize respect, discipline, and sportsmanship. Encourage players to shake hands with opponents before and after matches and to accept decisions from referees without protest.

Key moments from the Fair Play Award ceremony

The Fair Play Award was presented during the closing ceremony in Rabat, with South Africa’s captain accepting the trophy on behalf of the team. The ceremony highlighted the positive impact of sportsmanship in women’s football, with several players and coaches emphasizing the need for respect and unity in the game.

The event also featured speeches from CAF officials, who praised South Africa for their exemplary conduct. They also highlighted the importance of fair play in promoting the growth of women’s football in Africa. The ceremony was a fitting end to a tournament that celebrated not just the best players but also the values of sportsmanship and respect.

Team of the Tournament: The best XI from WAFCON 2026

The official Team of the Tournament for WAFCON 2026 was announced following the final, featuring the best performers from each position. The selection was based on performance, impact, and consistency throughout the tournament.

The best XI is as follows:

Goalkeeper: Annette Ngo Ndom (Cameroon)
Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Nigeria), Estelle Johnson (Cameroon), Janine van Wyk (South Africa), Linda Motlhalo (South Africa)
Midfielders: Gabrielle Onguéné (Cameroon), Refiloe Jane (South Africa), Thembi Kgatlana (South Africa)
Forwards: Asisat Oshoala (Nigeria), Ajara Nchout (Cameroon), Rasheedat Ajibade (Nigeria)

This team reflects the diversity and talent on display at WAFCON 2026, with players from Cameroon, Nigeria, and South Africa dominating the selections. The inclusion of players like Osinachi Ohale and Janine van Wyk highlights the experience and leadership they brought to their respective teams.

The Team of the Tournament is a testament to the growing competitiveness of African women’s football. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of investing in grassroots development and professional leagues to nurture young talent.

Honorable mentions in the Team of the Tournament

Several players narrowly missed out on the final XI but were recognized for their outstanding contributions. These include:

Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria, goalkeeper)
Ajara Nchout (Cameroon, forward)
Rita Chikwelu (Nigeria, midfielder)
Tabitha Chawinga (Malawi, forward)

Chiamaka Nnadozie, Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, was instrumental in her team’s run to the semi-finals. Her reflexes and command of her area were crucial in several matches, and she narrowly missed out on the final XI due to the exceptional performance of Annette Ngo Ndom.

Ajara Nchout, Cameroon’s forward, was a key player in her team’s title-winning campaign. Her physicality and finishing were crucial in several matches, and she narrowly missed out on the final XI due to the inclusion of Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade.

Practical tip: To build a strong team, focus on balancing experience and youth. Encourage young players to learn from experienced teammates and to develop their skills through regular training and competition.

Young Player of the Tournament: Who is Africa’s next star?

The Young Player of the Tournament award at WAFCON 2026 went to Malawi’s Tabitha Chawinga, who announced herself as one of Africa’s most exciting talents. The 22-year-old forward scored four goals in the tournament, including a brace in the group stage against Algeria. Her pace, dribbling, and finishing caught the attention of scouts across Europe and Africa.

Chawinga’s rise mirrors that of other young African players who are making their mark on the global stage. Her performance in Morocco has opened doors for potential moves to top European clubs, following in the footsteps of players like Ajara Nchout and Asisat Oshoala. Chawinga’s success is a testament to the growing investment in women’s football in Malawi and across Africa.

Chawinga’s journey to the top has been one of hard work and determination. She began her career in Malawi before moving to China to play for Jiangsu Suning. Her experience in Asia has helped her develop her skills and gain valuable exposure to top-level football. Her performance at WAFCON 2026 is likely to attract interest from European clubs, which could provide her with even more opportunities to grow as a player.

Other nominees for the award included South Africa’s Lelona Daweti and Nigeria’s Esther Okoronkwo, both of whom showed promise and potential for the future of African football. Daweti, a midfielder, impressed with her creativity and energy, while Okoronkwo’s pace and dribbling were key to Nigeria’s run to the semi-finals.

Example: Tabitha Chawinga’s success at WAFCON 2026 is reminiscent of Nigeria’s young star, Rasheedat Ajibade. Ajibade’s move to Atlético Madrid in 2021 was a landmark moment for African women’s football, and Chawinga is following in her footsteps.

Practical tip: To develop a young player, focus on technical skills, physical conditioning, and mental toughness. Encourage young players to watch and learn from the best, and to seek opportunities to play at higher levels.

Best Coach at WAFCON 2026: Who led their team to glory?

The Best Coach award at WAFCON 2026 was presented to Cameroon’s Gabriel Zabo, who masterminded his team’s historic victory. Zabo’s tactical acumen and man-management were key to Cameroon’s success, as he guided a relatively inexperienced squad to the title. His ability to motivate his players and adapt to different opponents was evident throughout the tournament.

Zabo’s journey to the top has been one of perseverance, having worked with several clubs and national teams in Africa. His appointment as Cameroon’s head coach in 2024 was met with skepticism by some, but his results have silenced his critics. Under his leadership, Cameroon became the first team to win all their matches without conceding a goal in the knockout stages.

Zabo’s tactical approach was based on a high-pressing system that emphasized quick transitions and clinical finishing. He also focused on building a strong team culture, with an emphasis on unity and discipline. This approach paid off, as Cameroon’s players bought into his vision and delivered when it mattered most.

Other coaches recognized for their work in the tournament included Nigeria’s Randy Waldrum and South Africa’s Desiree Ellis, both of whom led their teams to the semi-finals. Waldrum, a veteran coach with experience in the United States, implemented a system that emphasized possession and creativity. His team’s run to the semi-finals was marked by their technical ability and tactical discipline.

Desiree Ellis, South Africa’s head coach, implemented a system that emphasized energy and pressing. Her team’s run to the semi-finals was marked by their physicality and commitment, which earned them praise from fans and pundits alike. Ellis’s ability to motivate her players and adapt to different opponents was evident throughout the tournament.

Practical tip: To become a successful coach, focus on tactical knowledge, man-management, and adaptability. Encourage young coaches to study the game, learn from experienced mentors, and seek opportunities to gain practical experience.

Zabo’s reaction to winning the Best Coach award

In his acceptance speech, Zabo dedicated the award to the people of Cameroon and the women’s football community in Africa. He said, “This is not just a victory for Cameroon, but for all African women who dream of playing football. We have shown that with hard work and belief, anything is possible.”

Zabo also thanked his players for their dedication and commitment, saying, “This award is a testament to the hard work and sacrifice of every player in the squad. We have made history together, and I am proud of what we have achieved.”

Breakdown of all WAFCON 2026 award winners

Below is a complete list of all the WAFCON winners from the 2026 tournament in Morocco:

Individual Awards

Golden Boot: Asisat Oshoala (Nigeria) – 6 goals
Player of the Tournament: Gabrielle Onguéné (Cameroon)
Best Goalkeeper: Annette Ngo Ndom (Cameroon)
Young Player of the Tournament: Tabitha Chawinga (Malawi)
Best Coach: Gabriel Zabo (Cameroon)
Fair Play Award: South Africa

The individual awards reflect the growing competitiveness and talent across African women’s football. Players like Oshoala, Onguéné, and Ngo Ndom have set new standards for excellence, while young talents like Chawinga are inspiring the next generation of players.

Team Awards

Champions: Cameroon
Runners-up: Malawi
Third Place: Nigeria
Fourth Place: South Africa

The team awards highlight the growing competitiveness of African women’s football. Cameroon’s victory was historic, while Malawi’s run to the final was a testament to the progress of smaller nations. Nigeria’s third-place finish and South Africa’s fourth-place finish also reflected the strength of African football.

Reactions from the WAFCON winners and finalists

The celebrations following Cameroon’s victory were felt across Africa, with fans and pundits hailing the win as a turning point for women’s football on the continent. Cameroon’s captain, Estelle Johnson, said, “This is for every girl in Cameroon who has ever dreamed of playing football. We have made history, and we hope this inspires more investment in women’s football.”

Johnson’s words reflect the significance of Cameroon’s victory for the country and the continent. The team’s success has been hailed as a turning point for women’s football in Cameroon, with local clubs and academies expected to see increased interest and investment.

Malawi’s coach, Sitiveni Banda, praised his team’s performance, saying, “We came here as underdogs, but we showed the world that Malawi can compete with the best. This is just the beginning for us.” Banda’s words reflect the progress of women’s football in Malawi and the potential for future success.

Nigeria’s coach, Randy Waldrum, acknowledged his team’s third-place finish, stating, “We are disappointed not to have won the title, but we have shown that Nigeria is still a force in African women’s football. We will come back stronger.” Waldrum’s words reflect the competitive nature of African football and the determination of teams to improve and succeed.

Example: Nigeria’s third-place finish at WAFCON 2026 is reminiscent of their performance at the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where they reached the round of 16. The team’s success in Morocco is a testament to their resilience and determination.

What WAFCON 2026 means for African women’s football

The success of the WAFCON winners in 2026 has significant implications for the future of women’s football in Africa. Cameroon’s victory is expected to boost interest and investment in the sport across the continent, particularly in countries where women’s football has struggled for recognition.

The tournament also highlighted the growing competitiveness of African teams, with Malawi’s run to the final proving that smaller nations can challenge the traditional powerhouses. This shift is likely to encourage more countries to invest in grassroots development and professional leagues for women’s football.

For fans in Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and other football-loving nations, the tournament provided a platform to celebrate the talent and dedication of African women footballers. The increased media coverage and fan engagement are expected to drive further growth in the sport.

Practical tip: To grow women’s football in your country, focus on investing in grassroots development, professional leagues, and media coverage. Encourage young girls to take up the sport and provide them with opportunities to develop their skills.

Impact on domestic leagues and clubs

The performances of players like Asisat Oshoala, Gabrielle Onguéné, and Tabitha Chawinga are likely to attract more attention to African leagues and clubs. Clubs in Europe and the Americas may look to recruit more African talent, following the footsteps of players like Oshoala, who has played for Barcelona and Arsenal.

In Africa, the success of WAFCON 2026 could lead to increased sponsorship and broadcasting deals for women’s football. This financial boost would help clubs develop academies and provide better facilities for young players. The increased investment could also lead to the creation of more professional leagues for women’s football in Africa.

Example: The success of WAFCON 2026 is reminiscent of the impact of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. The tournament boosted interest and investment in football across the continent, leading to the creation of new leagues and academies.

Opportunities for young players

The success of WAFCON 2026 has opened up new opportunities for young players across Africa. Players like Tabitha Chawinga and Rasheedat Ajibade have shown that African talent can compete at the highest level. Their success has inspired young girls to take up the sport and pursue careers in football.

Clubs in Europe are also taking notice of African talent, with several players earning moves to top leagues. This trend is likely to continue, providing more opportunities for young players to develop their skills and gain valuable experience.

Practical tip: To develop young talent, focus on providing opportunities for players to train and compete at higher levels. Encourage young players to seek opportunities abroad and to learn from experienced teammates and coaches.

How to watch WAFCON 2026 highlights and replays

For fans who missed any of the action from WAFCON 2026, highlights and replays are available on several platforms. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has uploaded full match replays on its official YouTube channel, where fans can relive the best moments from the tournament.

Additionally, sports networks like SuperSport and ESPN Africa have provided extensive coverage, including match previews, analysis, and post-match reactions. Fans can also follow updates on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram, where CAF and individual teams share key moments from the tournament.

For those interested in the tactical aspects of the tournament, several pundits and analysts have broken down the key strategies and performances in post-tournament articles and videos. These analyses provide valuable insights into the tactics and strategies that defined WAFCON 2026.

Practical tip: To stay updated on women’s football in Africa, follow CAF and individual teams on social media. Subscribe to sports networks that cover women’s football and read articles and analyses from pundits and analysts.

Frequently asked questions about WAFCON winners 2026

Who were the WAFCON winners in 2026?

The WAFCON winners in 2026 were Cameroon, who defeated Malawi 3-0 in the final to claim their first-ever title. The Indomitable Lionesses dominated the tournament, with standout performances from players like Gabrielle Onguéné and Annette Ngo Ndom. Cameroon’s victory marked a historic moment for women’s football in Africa.

Who won the Golden Boot at WAFCON 2026?

The Golden Boot at WAFCON 2026 was won by Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala, who scored six goals in the tournament. Oshoala extended her reputation as one of Africa’s greatest strikers with her clinical finishing and leadership on the pitch. Her success at WAFCON 2026 is a testament to her talent and dedication.

Which team won the Fair Play Award at WAFCON 2026?

The Fair Play Award at WAFCON 2026 was won by South Africa for their exemplary conduct throughout the tournament. The Banyana Banyana displayed sportsmanship and respect, earning praise from fans and officials alike. Their team culture and commitment to fair play reflected the growing professionalism in African women’s football.

Where can I watch highlights from WAFCON 2026?

Highlights and full match replays from WAFCON 2026 are available on the Confederation of African Football’s official YouTube channel. Fans can also catch up on the action through sports networks like SuperSport and ESPN Africa. Social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram are also great sources for updates and highlights.

What does Cameroon’s WAFCON 2026 victory mean for African football?

Cameroon’s victory at WAFCON 2026 is a significant milestone for African women’s football, as it demonstrates the growing competitiveness and talent across the continent. The win is expected to boost investment in women’s football and inspire more young girls to take up the sport. It also highlights the importance of investing in grassroots development and professional leagues.

Who was named the best goalkeeper at WAFCON 2026?

The best goalkeeper at WAFCON 2026 was Cameroon’s Annette Ngo Ndom, who conceded just two goals in six matches. Ngo Ndom’s crucial saves and leadership were vital to Cameroon’s title-winning campaign. Her performance earned her widespread acclaim and solidified her status as one of Africa’s best goalkeepers.

How can I get involved in women’s football in Africa?

There are several ways to get involved in women’s football in Africa. You can volunteer with local clubs or academies, support women’s football initiatives, or even try out for a local team. Many organizations also offer coaching and refereeing courses, which can help you develop your skills and contribute to the growth of the sport.

What’s next for the WAFCON winners?

For the WAFCON winners, the future looks bright. Cameroon’s victory has opened up new opportunities for the team, including potential invitations to international tournaments and increased sponsorship deals. The players are also likely to attract interest from clubs in Europe and other parts of the world, which could provide them with even more opportunities to grow as players.

Will WAFCON expand in future editions?

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced plans to expand the WAFCON tournament in future editions, with more teams expected to participate. This expansion could provide even more African nations with the chance to compete at the highest level. The increased competitiveness is likely to raise the standard of African football and inspire more young players to take up the sport.

Looking ahead: What’s next for WAFCON winners and African football?

The success of the WAFCON winners in 2026 sets the stage for an exciting future for African women’s football. Cameroon’s victory is likely to inspire more countries to invest in their women’s teams, with the hope of closing the gap to traditional powerhouses like Nigeria and South Africa.

For the players, the tournament has opened doors to new opportunities, including potential moves to top European clubs and increased sponsorship deals. Players like Asisat Oshoala and Tabitha Chawinga are expected to attract more attention from global scouts, further raising the profile of African football.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has also announced plans to expand the WAFCON tournament in future editions, with more teams expected to participate. This expansion could provide even more African nations with the chance to compete at the highest level. The increased competitiveness is likely to raise the standard of African football and inspire more young players to take up the sport.

For fans in Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and across the continent, the future of women’s football has never looked brighter. The WAFCON 2026 winners have set a new standard, and the next chapter promises to be even more thrilling.

As we reflect on the tournament, one thing is clear: African women’s football is on the rise, and the world is taking notice. The WAFCON winners of 2026 have not only made history but have also paved the way for a brighter future for the sport in Africa.

ByEditorial Team