Compared with the relatively predictable 2024 WAFCON, this edition was far more competitive and delivered several shocks.
Tanzania overturned a 65-place world ranking gap to upset South Africa in the group stage, and the 2022 champions then needed a 99th-minute equaliser to rescue a draw against Ivory Coast.
Debutants Malawi were the fairy-tale story, edging 10-time champions Nigeria 3-2 in their opener before defeating Ghana and Algeria to reach the final.
Driven by the attacking brilliance of the Chawinga sisters, the Scorchers are set to rise from 153rd in the world—and 32nd in Africa—when FIFA updates its rankings.
Zambia were unlucky to miss the knockouts despite earning six points in Group C, while Mali went out on goal difference after finishing level with Ghana on four points in Group D.
Only Cape Verde, Egypt and Kenya failed to win a match; Egypt conceded 15 goals, and the Harambee Starlets did not score.
There were 90 goals in 32 games (excluding the two Women’s World Cup play-offs), lifting the average to 2.81 per match, up from 2.54 in the 2024 edition.