Cameroon vs Malawi Women WAFCON Final Preview
The Women's Africa Cup of Nations title is on the line as Cameroon host Malawi in the final on Sunday.
Both teams have had impressive campaigns, but the Indomitable Lionesses are unbeaten in the competition and driven by a solid defence, should have the edge here.
Key Stats
- Cameroon are unbeaten in their five WAFCON matches.
- Cameroon have won four of their last six matches in all competitions.
- Malawi lost their final group stage fixture.
No Previous Meetings
This will be the first ever meeting between Cameroon and Malawi at this level.
Another Shot at Glory for Cameroon
Cameroon are in the WAFCON final after beating hosts Morocco on penalties in the last four. They put up a solid defensive display to hold out for a 0-0 draw in regulation time before winning the shootout.
The Indomitable Lionesses have plenty of experience at this level, having played in four previous WAFCON finals. They are yet to win the title and manager Valentine Nguele will consider this tournament as the perfect opportunity to end years of heartbreak.
Cameroon are unbeaten in this year's tournament and are driven by a solid defence that has shut out the solid attacks of Nigeria, Ghana and Morocco. Goalkeeper Michaely Bihina is also enjoying an impressive campaign and saved four penalties in the semi-final against Morocco.
Debut to Remember for Malawi
Malawi secured a place in Sunday's clash after claiming a 3-1 victory over Algeria in the semi-final. Tabitha Chawinga netted a brace while Temwa Chawinga was also on target as they eased to a comfortable victory.
It has been an impressive campaign for Malawi, who are playing in the final in their first-ever WAFCON appearance. Driven by the Chawinga sisters, who have a combined nine goals so far, the Scorchers have impressed going forward.
While Malawi will be pleased to be playing in the final, it has not been smooth sailing all the way. Lovemore Fazili's team found things difficult against Zambia in their final group stage match and suffered a 2-1 defeat.
Team News and Predicted Line-ups
Cameroon (4-1-4-1): Michaely Bihina; Ivana Yakana, Myriam Nyadjou, Easther Mayi Kith, Collete Ndzana; Monique Ngock; Naomi Ndjoah Eto, Genevieve Ngo Mbeleck, Achta Toko, Grace Mendoua; Marie Ngah.
Cameroon came away from the semi-final with no injuries or suspensions and are likely to stick with a similar team. Nyadjou and Mayi Kith should continue their central defensive partnership while Ngah is set to lead the line once again.
Malawi (4-2-3-1): Mercy Sikelo; Benadetta Mkandawire, Rose Alufandika, Chimwemwe Madise, Ireen Khumalo; Chikondi Gondwe, Faith Chinzimu; Asimenye Simwaka, Vanessa Chikupila, Tabitha Chawinga; Temwa Chawinga.
Malawi will be without Rose Kadzere, who is suspended after receiving a red card in the semi-final. Chikupila was a second-half substitute last time out and could earn a start in midfield, while the Chawinga sisters should feature in attack once again.