Cameroon claimed its first Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title on Sunday after defeating tournament debutants Malawi 3-0 in the final.
The victory ended Cameroon’s long wait for the continental trophy after three previous final defeats, all against record 10-time champions Nigeria.
Marie Ngah Manga was the star of the final, scoring twice with headers, while Naomi Eto added the other goal as the Indomitable Lionesses controlled the match and kept Malawi’s dangerous Chawinga sisters largely quiet.
Cameroon took the lead in the 21st minute when Ngah Manga headed home from close range. Eight minutes later, Eto doubled the advantage with a fine finish after turning inside the Malawi defence.
The result was effectively sealed after the break when Eto raced onto the ball before goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo and delivered a precise cross for Ngah Manga to head in her second goal of the night and her fifth of the tournament.
Malawi tried to fight back through sisters Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga. Tabitha appealed for a penalty, but a VAR review ruled against the claim. She later forced a save from Cameroon goalkeeper Michaely Bihina, while Temwa came close from the rebound.
The final whistle sparked celebrations among Cameroon’s players and substitutes, while Samuel Eto’o, president of the Cameroon Football Federation, celebrated from the stands.
For Cameroon, the 3-0 victory marked a historic breakthrough and finally delivered the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations trophy after years of disappointment in the final.
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