Omanghana
Cameroon’s Indomitable Lionesses have won their first Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title after defeating tournament debutants Malawi 3-0 in the final.
The historic match was played at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, on Sunday, August 16, 2026.
Cameroon delivered a commanding first-half performance, scoring all three goals before the interval to end years of disappointment in the continental competition.
Marie Ngah opened the scoring in the 20th minute. Grace Mendoua’s initial header was saved by Malawi goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo, but Ngah reacted quickly to head the rebound into the net.
Naomi Ndjoah Eto doubled Cameroon’s advantage 10 minutes later. Following a corner delivered by Maeva Nyadjou, Eto produced an acrobatic turn and finish to give the Lionesses firm control of the contest.
Ngah completed her brace in first-half stoppage time, heading home a well-placed cross from Eto. The goal was her fifth of the tournament and sent Cameroon into the break with an emphatic 3-0 lead.
Malawi attempted to respond in the second half, but Cameroon protected their advantage to secure a long-awaited continental crown.
The triumph ended a painful history for the Indomitable Lionesses, who lost their three previous WAFCON finals in 2004, 2014 and 2016. Nigeria defeated Cameroon on each of those occasions.
Cameroon initially failed to qualify for the 2026 tournament but received another opportunity after the Confederation of African Football expanded the competition from 12 to 16 teams.
The Lionesses have now become the fourth country to win the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, joining Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea and South Africa.
Despite the defeat, Malawi completed a remarkable debut campaign. Inspired by sisters Temwa and Tabitha Chawinga, the Scorchers eliminated established teams, including Nigeria and Ghana, on their way to the final.
Their performance also earned them qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, representing a historic achievement for Malawian women’s football.
Source: Omanghana
