WAFCON 2026: Probable line-ups for Cameroon v Malawi final

Cameroon and Malawi are expected to make few changes to their strongest sides when they meet in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 final at 19:00 GMT tonight.

Both coaches are likely to retain the core of the teams that have carried them through the tournament, although Malawi must replace Rose Kadzere after the attacking midfielder was sent off in the semi-final and will miss the final through suspension.

Cameroon expected to keep familiar core

Cameroon are expected to approach the final with confidence in the players who have played key roles during their run to the title match.

Michaely Bihina is likely to start in goal, with Easther Mayi Kith and Bernadette Nyadjou forming the central defensive partnership.

Marie Victoire Yakana and Colette Ndzana are expected to operate on either side of the defence.

Monique Ngock is likely to retain her place in midfield and will be expected to help control the game and provide service to the attacking players.

The attacking line is expected to feature Njoya Ajara Ndjoah Eeto, Cathy Ngo Mbeleck, Naomi Toko and Lydienne Mendoua, with Marie-Gisèle Ngah leading the attack.

Cameroon probable line-up

Goalkeeper: Michaely Bihina (23)

Defenders: Marie Victoire Yakana (26), Bernadette Nyadjou (21), Easther Mayi Kith (2), Colette Ndzana (15)

Midfielder: Monique Ngock (14)

Attackers: Njoya Ajara Ndjoah Eeto (10), Cathy Ngo Mbeleck (20), Naomi Toko (6), Lydienne Mendoua (9)

Forward: Marie-Gisèle Ngah (11)

The expected selection reflects the coaching staff’s preference for continuity, with the established core of the side set to feature in the decisive match.

Malawi face key selection change

Malawi are also expected to keep most of their successful line-up intact, but Kadzere’s suspension means there will be at least one important change.

The young attacking midfielder was shown a red card in the semi-final and is therefore unavailable for the final.

Letticia Chinyamula is expected to step into her position alongside Faith Chinzimu and Chikondi Gondwe.

Behind them, Ireen Khumalo, Chimwemwe Madise, Rose Alufandika and Benadetta Mkandawire are expected to form the defensive line, with Mercy Sikelo in goal.

Chawinga sisters lead Malawi attack

Malawi’s main threat is expected to come from sisters Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga.

The pair have played an important role in the Scorchers’ run to the final and are expected to start alongside Asimenye Simwaka in attack.

The combination gives Malawi a familiar attacking structure as they prepare for the biggest match of their campaign.

Malawi probable line-up

Goalkeeper: Mercy Sikelo (1)

Defenders: Benadetta Mkandawire (22), Rose Alufandika (21), Chimwemwe Madise (4), Ireen Khumalo (18)

Midfielders: Faith Chinzimu (17), Chikondi Gondwe (24), Letticia Chinyamula

Attackers: Asimenye Simwaka (7), Temwa Chawinga (10), Tabitha Chawinga (11)

Chinyamula’s inclusion is the principal expected change to the Malawi team, with Kadzere unable to take part because of her semi-final dismissal.

Cameroon v Malawi final

The final brings together two sides that have reached the decisive stage of the Women’s AFCON with largely settled teams.

Cameroon are expected to rely on the players who have been trusted throughout their campaign, while Malawi will have to adapt to the absence of Kadzere.

The Scorchers can nevertheless call on the Chawinga sisters in attack, while Cameroon have several established attacking options of their own.

With both teams expected to make only limited changes, tactical decisions could prove important when the final begins at 19:00 GMT.

The probable line-ups suggest that neither side intends to move far from the approach that took them to the final, although Malawi’s forced change in midfield provides one of the key selection talking points before kick-off.