In a tournament defined by unpredictability, the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semifinals are set, and the biggest names have fallen. Malawi, the tournament's lowest-ranked team, and Cameroon, who stunned the defending champions, have secured their places in the last four and, with it, a spot at the 2027 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. Main Developments Malawi's quarterfinal against Ghana in Rabat was a tale of resilience. Falling behind to Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah's seventh-minute volley, the Malawians responded within five minutes when a Temwa Chawinga shot was deflected home. Rose Kadzere then fired them ahead in the 79th minute, and despite late Ghanaian pressure, Malawi held on for a 2-1 victory. Cameroon's win over Nigeria was equally dramatic, though it came from a set piece. Nineteen-year-old Myriam Nyadjou curled a free kick past goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie in the 19th minute, and goalkeeper Michaely Bihina made a series of acrobatic saves to preserve the 1-0 lead. Nigeria's best chance came in added time when Esther Okoronkwo's shot trickled wide after a race with Bihina. Read also: Reduced Kashmir Election Proceeds Amid Deadly Protests The semifinals will see Malawi face Algeria in Casablanca on Wednesday, while hosts Morocco take on Cameroon in Rabat. None of the four semifinalists has ever won the WAFCON title, guaranteeing a new champion. Background Malawi entered the tournament as complete outsiders, ranked 153rd in the world and never before qualified for the WAFCON. They stunned record 10-time champions Nigeria in their opening match, then beat Egypt, and despite a loss to Zambia, advanced on goals scored. Ghana, by contrast, had been runners-up three times and were ranked 62 places above Malawi, making their exit a major upset. Nigeria, the defending champions and record holders with 10 titles, were eliminated in the quarterfinals for only the second time in 14 WAFCON meetings with Cameroon. The Indomitable Lionesses had not beaten Nigeria in this competition since 2012, and their victory sparked wild celebrations among substitutes and coaching staff. Why It Matters The results reshape the landscape of African women's football. Malawi's rise from 153rd to World Cup qualifiers in a single tournament is a landmark achievement, while Cameroon's upset of Nigeria signals a shift in continental power. For Nigeria, the defeat is a major setback, especially with the 2027 World Cup on the horizon. All four semifinalists secure automatic berths at the 2027 World Cup in Brazil, while the losing quarterfinalists will get a second chance through African and inter-continental playoffs. This makes every remaining match crucial not just for the title but for global qualification. What's Next Attention now turns to Wednesday's semifinals in Casablanca and Rabat. Malawi will face Algeria, a team they have never met in a major tournament, while Cameroon take on hosts Morocco, who will have home support. The winners advance to the final, while the losers will still have a chance to reach the World Cup via playoffs. For Nigeria, the focus shifts to the playoffs, where they will seek to redeem themselves after an early exit. The Super Falcons will need to regroup quickly, with their squad fitness and tactical preparation under scrutiny following the loss.