WAFCON 2026: Malawi Reach Historic First Final After Beating Algeria 3-1

Malawi have reached their first-ever Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final after defeating Algeria 3-1 in a thrilling semi-final in Rabat, Morocco, on Wednesday.

Malawi had already secured qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, but their latest victory has now taken their historic campaign to another level.

The semi-final was a physical contest, with both teams reduced to 10 players after receiving red cards in the first half. Malawi were shown the first red card before Algeria also lost a player about 20 minutes later.

Malawi took the lead in the 33rd minute through captain Tabitha Chawinga, who produced an acrobatic finish to put the Scorchers ahead.

Temwa Chawinga then doubled Malawi's advantage shortly before half-time after rounding the goalkeeper and finishing into an empty net.

Algeria pulled one back in the 60th minute through Ikram Adjabi, who reacted quickest to a loose ball following Marine Dafeur's dangerous free-kick.

However, Malawi restored their two-goal advantage when Tabitha Chawinga completed her brace with a left-footed finish. Algeria could not find another response as Malawi held on for a memorable 3-1 victory.

The result sends the Scorchers into their first-ever WAFCON final, completing a remarkable debut campaign that has already secured their place at the 2027 Women's World Cup.