By Angu Lesley
Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon
The opening round of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) produced thrilling encounters, memorable goals and outstanding individual performances, with eight players recognised as Player of the Match after inspiring their respective nations.
From historic upsets to dominant victories, these stars set the tone for what promises to be another exciting edition of Africa’s premier women’s football tournament.
Temwa Chawinga inspires Malawi’s historic upset
Malawi captain Temwa Chawinga led her side to one of the biggest surprises of the opening round, helping the tournament debutants defeat defending champions Nigeria 3-2.
The experienced forward broke the deadlock in the second half before producing a tireless display that constantly troubled the Super Falcons’ defence. Her leadership, attacking threat and ability to inspire her teammates earned her the Player of the Match award as Malawi celebrated a famous first WAFCON victory.
Barbra Banda steals the headlines
Zambia captain Barbra Banda delivered the standout individual performance of Matchday One by scoring four goals in her side’s emphatic 6-0 victory over Egypt.
The reigning CAF Women’s Player of the Year was unstoppable throughout the contest, using her pace, strength and clinical finishing to dismantle Egypt’s defence. Her remarkable four-goal haul made her the tournament’s leading scorer after the opening round and underlined her status as one of Africa’s finest footballers.
Ngah Manga leads Cameroon by example
Cameroon captain Gisèle Ngah Manga inspired the Indomitable Lionesses to a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Mali in Group D.
She gave Cameroon the perfect start by scoring her maiden WAFCON goal in the 12th minute before leading from the front with her movement, physical presence and experience. Her influence remained evident throughout the match as Cameroon recovered from Mali’s equaliser to secure all three points.
Konan shines for Côte d’Ivoire
Midfielder Inès Konan was the driving force behind Côte d’Ivoire’s opening victory.
Konan scored twice while also dictating play in midfield, combining intelligent movement, composure in front of goal and excellent passing to earn a deserved Player of the Match award.
Msewa dominates for Tanzania
Diana Msewa produced an energetic all-round display to help Tanzania make a positive start to their campaign.
Her relentless work rate, defensive contribution and ability to carry the ball forward made her the standout performer for the Twiga Stars.
Ait El Haj orchestrates Morocco
Home favourite Hanane Ait El Haj controlled proceedings from midfield as Morocco cruised to a convincing 4-0 victory over Kenya.
Her vision, passing range and composure allowed the Atlas Lionesses to dominate possession and create numerous attacking opportunities throughout the contest.
Bethi anchors Algeria
Algeria midfielder Melissa Bethi impressed with an accomplished performance at both ends of the pitch.
She broke up opposition attacks, controlled possession and launched dangerous moves from midfield, playing a key role in Algeria’s successful start to the tournament.
Bonsu powers Ghana
Joséphine Bonsu rounded off the list of Matchday One award winners after an influential display in Ghana’s victory over Cape Verde.
The midfielder controlled central areas, won crucial battles and provided the platform for Ghana’s attacking play with her composed distribution and tireless work rate.
A promising start to WAFCON 2026
The opening round has already showcased the quality spread across the continent, with established stars such as Barbra Banda and Temwa Chawinga delivering as expected, while players like Gisèle Ngah Manga, Inès Konan, Diana Msewa, Hanane Ait El Haj, Melissa Bethi and Joséphine Bonsu announced themselves among the tournament’s early standout performers.
With the race for the knockout stages now underway, these eight players have set the standard for the rest of the competition and will be aiming to build on their impressive starts in the matches ahead.
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