Zambia star Barbra Banda headlines 2026 CAF Women’s Player of the Year shortlists

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unveiled a 10-player shortlist for the 2026 Women’s Player of the Year award, with Malawi forward Temwa Chawinga, Zambia captain Barbra Banda and Cameroon goalkeeper Michaely Bihina among the nominees.

The shortlist, announced on Tuesday, November 3, features some of the standout performers in African women’s football, following an eventful year highlighted by the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Cameroon’s Bihina earned recognition after an impressive campaign at the continental tournament, where she played an important role in her country’s historic triumph. Her outstanding performances between the posts also earned her the Best Goalkeeper award at the competition.

Malawi’s Temwa Chawinga is another major inclusion following her remarkable contribution to the Flames’ impressive run at their maiden Women’s Africa Cup of Nations appearance.

The forward played a key role in helping Malawi reach the final and finish as runners-up, scoring five goals and providing two assists during the tournament. Her impressive scoring record also saw her finish as the competition’s top scorer.

Zambia captain Barbra Banda has also been recognised for her performances, securing a place among the 10 candidates competing for the prestigious individual honour.

The shortlist also features several other notable names, including three-time Cameroon representatives Marie Ngah Manga and Monique Ngock, alongside Ghana’s Portia Boakye and Malawi’s Tabitha Chawinga.

Algeria’s Marine Dafeur, Morocco’s Hanane Aït El Haj and South Africa’s Thembi Kgatlana complete the list of nominees.

The 2026 CAF Women’s Player of the Year winner will be announced at the CAF Awards ceremony scheduled for Monday, December 7, in Lagos, Nigeria.

Full list of nominees:

1. Marine Dafeur (Algeria)

2. Marie Ngah Manga (Cameroon)

3. Michaely Bihina (Cameroon)

4. Monique Ngock (Cameroon)

5. Portia Boakye (Ghana)

6. Tabitha Chawinga (Malawi)

7. Temwa Chawinga (Malawi)

8. Hanane Aït El Haj (Morocco)

9. Thembi Kgatlana (South Africa)

10. Barbra Banda (Zambia)