Cameroon goalkeeper Michaely Bihina has emerged as one of the standout performers at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), playing a key role in the Indomitable Lionesses’ run to the final.
The 22-year-old goalkeeper has been outstanding between the posts, helping Cameroon keep three clean sheets against some of the strongest teams in the competition, including Ghana, Nigeria and hosts Morocco.
Bihina’s biggest moment came in Cameroon’s dramatic semi-final victory over Morocco on Wednesday, August 12. After the match ended goalless following extra time, the tie went to a penalty shootout.
The Cameroon goalkeeper proved decisive, saving three penalties during the shootout after also stopping a penalty during extra time.
Her heroics helped Cameroon win the shootout and secure a place in the final.
Her impressive performances have also earned her two Player of the Match awards during the tournament, further highlighting her importance to Cameroon’s campaign.
Bihina, who plays her club football in Portugal and has recently joined Benfica, was already regarded as a promising goalkeeper before the tournament.
A pre-tournament assessment by The IX Sports highlighted her talent and tipped the competition as a possible breakthrough moment for her.
That prediction has so far proved accurate, with Bihina becoming a central figure in Cameroon’s impressive campaign. Cameroon now faces Malawi in the final on Sunday, August 16, 7:00 p.m. GMT.
