Cameroon Triumphs in WAFCON Final Against Malawi, Securing First Title
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon secured their inaugural title in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) by defeating Malawi 3-0 in the final held in Morocco. This victory marked a significant milestone for Cameroon, who had previously faced disappointment in three WAFCON finals in 2004, 2014, and 2016.
The match was dominated by Cameroon, who swiftly established their superiority with a scoring spree in the first half. Marie Ngah Manga was particularly influential, netting two goals, while Naomi Eto contributed one, leading to a decisive 3-0 win. The victory was especially poignant for a team that had faced a challenging path to the tournament, having not initially qualified but later securing a place based on their FIFA ranking amidst an expanded tournament format.
Coached by Valentine Nguele and Dimitri Lipoff, the team displayed impressive form throughout the tournament, notably defeating both Nigeria and Morocco—considered two of the strongest contenders—during the knockout stages. This success against formidable opponents laid the groundwork for Cameroon’s historic win in the final.
During the match, Cameroon set an aggressive tone early on with Achta Toko Njoya making the first attempt on goal, though her shot failed to find the net. Malawi briefly rallied, with Temwa Chawinga posing a threat down the left flank, but the Cameroonian defense, managed by Michaely Bihina and Easther Mayi Kith, held firm under pressure.
However, it was Cameroon who opened the scoring against the run of play. A cross from Naomi Eto found Grace Mendoua at the back post, whose header was parried onto the bar by Malawi’s goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo, only for Marie Ngah Manga to convert the rebound. Almost immediately after, Malawi had a corner which was expertly dealt with by Bihina, maintaining Cameroon’s lead.
Momentum swung back towards Cameroon when another corner from Maeva Nyadjou saw Eto execute a stunning acrobatic shot, doubling Cameroon’s advantage. Moments later, there was a near miss for a third goal as several Cameroonian players outpaced their Malawian counterparts, culminating in a penalty appeal that was denied after a VAR review concerning a collision in the box.
With confidence soaring, Cameroon extended their lead just before halftime as Eto assisted Ngah Manga for her second goal of the match, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from Malawi. As the half concluded, Kameroonian spirits soared, knowing they were on the path to securing their first WAFCON title.
In the second half, despite Malawi’s efforts to rally, including a shot from Chawinga that narrowly missed, it was Cameroon who continued to control the game. Ngah Manga sought her hat-trick but was thwarted by Sikelo after a strong setup by Genevieve Ngo Mbeleck. The end of the match saw Cameroon pushing for additional goals, and while a late attempt from Gabrielle Onguene was ruled offside, the score remained at 3-0 when the final whistle blew.
The successful campaign concluded with Cameroon lifting the WAFCON trophy for the first time, a moment of pride for the nation and a new chapter in women’s football in Africa.
