Cameroon have lifted the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations trophy for the first time after a convincing 3-0 victory over Malawi in Sunday’s final in Rabat.
Marie Ngah Manga set the tone for the Indomitable Lionesses when she headed Cameroon into the lead in the 20th minute.
Naomi Eto increased the advantage shortly after with a superb volley before assisting Ngah Manga for her second goal just before the break.
Malawi struggled to respond as Cameroon kept the Scorchers’ attack under control. The Chawinga sisters, Tabitha and Temwa, who had played key roles in Malawi’s remarkable run, found it difficult to make an impact.
Ngah Manga nearly completed her hat-trick early in the second half but missed after going around goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo.
The Scorchers later had a chance to pull one back, but Tabitha Chawinga’s shot was saved by Cameroon goalkeeper Michaely Bihina, while her follow-up effort went wide.
The title marks a stunning turnaround for Cameroon, who missed the 2024 edition and initially failed to qualify for the 2026 tournament after Algeria won their qualifying tie 3-1 on aggregate.
Their participation was eventually secured through their world ranking.
After losing three previous WAFCON finals, Cameroon have finally claimed the continental crown, becoming only the fourth nation to win the competition after Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea and South Africa.
The victory also books Cameroon a spot at the 2027 Women’s FIFA World Cup in Brazil.