WAFCON 2026: Algeria vs Malawi – How and when to watch crucial semi-final clash

Algeria and Malawi will meet in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semi-final in Rabat on Wednesday, with both sides bidding for a place in the continental final.

The encounter is a landmark moment for Malawi, who are appearing at the tournament for the first time and have reached the last four after a remarkable run.

Algeria, meanwhile, advanced with a 2-1 quarter-final victory over Ivory Coast after finishing behind hosts Morocco in Group A.

Malawi chasing more history

The Scorchers have been one of the biggest stories of the tournament.

Malawi reached the semi-finals after beating Ghana 2-1 in the quarter-finals, having already defeated Nigeria and Egypt during the group stage.

Their progress has also secured the country’s qualification for their first FIFA Women’s World Cup.

By reaching the last four, Malawi became the first WAFCON debutants to achieve the feat since 2000, giving the team another opportunity to make history in Rabat.

Algeria built on defensive strength

Algeria’s campaign has been based largely on defensive organisation.

The Fennecs have conceded only two goals in four matches and will look to maintain that resilience against a Malawi side known for its pace and direct attacking approach.

Marine Dafeur and Lina Boussaha are expected to provide much of Algeria’s attacking creativity, while Sofia Guellati will be central to the team’s defensive structure.

Algeria are also expected to maintain the disciplined shape that has helped them reach the semi-finals.

Chawinga sisters key to Malawi hopes

Malawi’s attacking threat will once again be led by sisters Tabitha Chawinga and Temwa Chawinga.

The pair have been central to the Scorchers’ impressive campaign and will look to use their speed to stretch the Algerian defence.

Forward Asimenye Simwaka is another player capable of making an impact, particularly when Malawi transition quickly from defence into attack.

The Scorchers are expected to press aggressively and try to exploit spaces behind Algeria’s defensive line.

A battle of contrasting styles

The semi-final could develop into a contest between Algeria’s defensive discipline and Malawi’s attacking intensity.

Algeria will aim to control the tempo, limit the space available around their penalty area and frustrate the Scorchers.

Malawi, on the other hand, are likely to press high and attack directly, with the Chawinga sisters providing the pace needed to threaten Algeria in transition.

With so much at stake, the first goal could prove crucial in determining which side takes control of the contest.

Match details

The semi-final will be played at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat on Wednesday, 12 August.

Kick-off is scheduled for 6pm Morocco time, 5pm GMT and 7pm CAT.

The match is listed for broadcast on Arryadia and beIN Sports in the MENA region, while viewers in Malawi and parts of sub-Saharan Africa can follow the game through SuperSport and KBC. CAF TV is also listed as a global digital streaming option.

Algeria and Malawi are both just one victory away from reaching the WAFCON final, setting up another significant chapter in what has already been a memorable tournament for African women’s football.