I’ll admit it: I underestimated the Indomitable Lionesses.

I didn’t pay much attention to Cameroon’s games at the ongoing WAFCON. After all, they did not originally qualify for the tournament but were drafted into the competition after CAF increased the number of participating teams.

Then Cameroon topped their group.

Still, I waved it off. I thought they had simply benefited from a relatively weak group, especially when compared to Nigeria’s group.

Then came the quarterfinal against Nigeria.

The Super Falcons were not at their best, but I still didn’t believe Cameroon could stop them.

I was wrong.

The reason? Michaely Bihina.

The Benfica goalkeeper was simply phenomenal. Nigeria created enough chances to win that game, but Bihina refused to be beaten. Long-range efforts, point-blank attempts—you name it, she stopped them.

The only ball that went behind her was Esther Okoronkwo’s late effort, which narrowly missed the target.

Cameroon survived. And suddenly, I started feeling for the hosts, Morocco.

Because they had Michaely Bihina waiting for them.

D-Day arrived, and Bihina delivered again.

She made crucial saves during the game, including from the penalty spot, and when the match eventually went to penalties, Morocco could only beat her once.

Bihina turned the shootout into her own show.

Poor Morocco. After hosting the WAFCON three consecutive times, they will still have to wait for that elusive title.

Now Cameroon face Malawi in the final, and the debutants deserve enormous credit for the remarkable run they’ve had in their first WAFCON appearance.

But I’m calling this one for Cameroon. 🇨🇲

One of the hallmarks of champions is having a goalkeeper who gives the entire team belief. When your goalkeeper inspires that much confidence, players are willing to fight for every ball, every tackle and every second.

Malawi have serious firepower up front. But will they beat Michaely Bihina easily?

I doubt it.

Cameroon have also paid their dues in women’s football over the years. This could finally be their moment to claim the crown.

So, for me, the story of this Cameroon team is clear: They have the belief. They have the experience. They have the hunger. And they have Michaely Bihina, who have won the Woman of the Match awards in their two knock-out games so far.

👑 ALL HAIL MICHAELY BIHINA — the emerging best female goalkeeper in Africa!