Michaely Bihina: A Stellar Performance Earns Cameroon’s Goalkeeper the Golden Glove Award at WAFCON 2026
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Michaely Bihina, the 22-year-old goalkeeper from Cameroon, has been awarded the coveted Golden Glove at the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2026. Her exceptional performance throughout the tournament was pivotal in leading the Indomitable Lionesses to their historic first continental title, marking a significant milestone in African women’s football.
Bihina showcased her exceptional talent and composure during high-pressure moments, which were crucial in securing victories for her team. One of her standout performances occurred in the quarter-finals against the defending champions, Nigeria, where she made an impressive nine saves to clinch a narrow 1-0 victory. This match not only highlighted her ability to perform under pressure but also marked her second clean sheet of the tournament, effectively eliminating Nigeria, who hold the record for the most WAFCON titles with ten.
The semi-final against the host nation, Morocco, further demonstrated Bihina's prowess. After a grueling 120 minutes that ended in a goalless stalemate, the match proceeded to penalties, where Bihina emerged as the hero by saving three Moroccan penalty kicks. This achievement made her the first Cameroonian goalkeeper to save three penalties in a WAFCON shoot-out, solidifying her status as a key player in her team's journey to the finals.
Completing her remarkable tournament, Bihina recorded yet another clean sheet in the final match against Malawi, which ended in a decisive 3-0 victory for Cameroon. Her consistent performance throughout the knockout stages, where she recorded 12 saves without conceding a goal, earned her the TotalEnergies Woman of the Match award in both the quarter-final and semi-final matches. This achievement underscores her vital role in the team’s defensive strategy and highlights the strength of Cameroon’s football program.
As the dust settles on WAFCON 2026, Michaely Bihina’s contributions will undoubtedly be remembered as a cornerstone of Cameroon’s historic triumph. Her journey is a testament to her hard work and dedication, inspiring future generations of female athletes across the African continent.
As reported by cafonline.com.
