Cameroon’s Lionesses crowned WAFCON champions
· The South African
The historic WAFCON victory at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium ended years of heartbreak for Cameroon, who had previously lost four continental finals.
Led by head coach Valentine Nguele, the Lionesses produced a ruthless first-half performance to secure the title and the $2 million winners’ prize.
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CAMEROON DOMINATE WAFCON FINAL
Cameroon took control from the start and broke the deadlock in the 20th minute. Marie Ngah Manga powered home a close-range header to give the Lionesses the lead.
Ten minutes later, Naomi Ndjoah Eto doubled the advantage. The 21-year-old midfielder produced a spectacular volley after being set up by Myriam Nyadjou.
Cameroon then delivered another blow just before half-time. Ndjoah Eto turned provider, sliding the ball through to Ngah Manga, who calmly finished for her second goal of the night.
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The Lionesses went into the break 3-0 ahead.
MALAWI’S FAIRYTALE RUN ENDS
Malawi had captured the imagination of the continent with a remarkable run to the final. The Scorchers were the lowest-ranked team entering the tournament but defied expectations throughout the competition.
Much of their success was driven by star sisters Tabitha Chawinga and Temwa Chawinga. However, they struggled to break down Cameroon’s organised defence in the final.
Goalkeeper Michaely Bihina produced a commanding performance as the Lionesses kept Malawi at bay. The Scorchers applied more pressure after the break, but Cameroon managed the game expertly.
The final whistle confirmed a historic 3-0 victory.
FROM ‘LUCKY LOSERS’ TO CHAMPIONS
Cameroon’s journey to the title makes their achievement even more remarkable. The Lionesses had initially failed to qualify after losing to Algeria on aggregate.
However, CAF’s decision to expand WAFCON from 12 to 16 teams gave Cameroon another opportunity. They secured their place through their FIFA world ranking. What followed was an unforgettable knockout campaign.
Cameroon eliminated ten-time champions Nigeria, defeated hosts Morocco, and then overcame Malawi to finally lift the continental crown.
From “lucky losers” to African champions, the Lionesses completed one of the most remarkable turnarounds in WAFCON history. FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Patrice Motsepe presented the trophy to the jubilant Cameroonian squad.
The triumph also secured a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil for both finalists. For Cameroon, however, the night belonged to a team that had waited years for this moment. The Indomitable Lionesses are finally champions of Africa.