Match Preview
WAFCON 2026 has already delivered its fair share of surprises, and the second semifinal may be the best example yet. Algeria and tournament debutants Malawi are both appearing at this stage for the first time, with the winner set to reach their first-ever WAFCON final.
Algeria reached the semifinals with a 2–1 comeback victory over Ivory Coast on Saturday. That victory continued what has been an impressive tournament for Algeria. They began with a 2–0 win over Senegal, narrowly lost 1–0 to hosts Morocco and then defeated Kenya 2–0 to qualify from Group A. Their biggest strength has been their defence, with only two goals conceded across four matches so far.
Malawi’s story has been completely different, but equally impressive. The Scorchers have not been afraid to turn matches into open contests, starting with their shock 3–2 win over defending champions Nigeria before defeating Egypt 3–1. Their only loss came against Zambia in the final group match, but they still finished top of Group C.
Then came Ghana. Malawi went behind in Sunday’s quarterfinal but once again refused to let the occasion get away from them. They achieved their first WAFCON semifinal place and their first ticket to a Women’s World Cup.
Algeria will almost certainly be more cautious than many of Malawi’s previous opponents. However, the Scorchers have scored in every match they have played at this tournament, so another upset cannot be ruled out.
Head-to-Head
These sides have never met on the field in the past, so current tournament form gives us a much better idea of what to expect. Algeria have been the stronger defensive side, while Malawi have carried the greater attacking threat. It sets up an interesting clash of styles, especially with a place in the final on the line.
Key Betting Tips
- Algeria to Win
- Over 2.5 Goals
- Both Teams to Score – Yes
- Correct Score Prediction: Algeria 2–1 Malawi
Best Bet
Algeria to Win
At this point, writing Malawi off would be a mistake. They have already beaten Nigeria and Ghana and have shown that they can recover even when a match starts moving against them. Algeria, however, have looked slightly more balanced throughout the tournament. Malawi should make them work for it, but Algeria’s stronger defence may be the difference.
Prediction
No matter what happens here, both sides will leave WAFCON 2026 having made history. Algeria have reached their first semifinal and qualified for their first Women’s World Cup, while Malawi have achieved the same in their debut tournament.
Malawi’s attacking style makes them incredibly difficult to dismiss, and they have already punished several more established teams. Algeria have been much less unpredictable, though, and their ability to keep matches under control gives them a slight advantage heading into the semifinal.
Expect another close contest, with Malawi finding the net but Algeria eventually doing enough to earn their first place in a WAFCON final.
Make sure to back your WAFCON semifinal favourites at Bet.co.za.
Prediction: Algeria 2–1 Malawi

