Cameroon begin Women’s AFCON 2026 campaign with hopes of ending title drought

Cameroon will return to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in 2026 with ambitions of finally claiming the continental title after missing the previous edition of the tournament.

The Indomitable Lionesses, one of Africa’s most established women’s football teams, are preparing for another attempt at glory as they look to overcome a difficult group stage and revive their hopes of winning their first AFCON crown.

Despite their strong reputation on the continent, Cameroon have never lifted the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations trophy.

The team has reached the final on three occasions, finishing runners-up in 2004, 2014 and 2016, but have been unable to complete the final step towards becoming champions.

Their absence from the 2024 edition marked a disappointing moment for a nation that has regularly competed among Africa’s leading women’s football sides. Their return in 2026 represents an opportunity to rebuild and challenge the continent’s best teams once again.

Under coach Valentine Nguele, Cameroon will rely on a blend of experience and emerging talent as they aim for a successful tournament.

Veteran forward Gabrielle Aboudi Onguéné is expected to provide leadership, while young talents such as Naomi Eto will bring energy and creativity to the squad.

Eto, who belongs to Paris Saint-Germain and is currently gaining experience on loan at Sassuolo, is among the promising players expected to play a key role in Cameroon’s future.

The Lionesses enter the 2026 Women’s AFCON as the third-most successful team in terms of podium finishes and have been drawn in Group D alongside Ghana, Mali and Cape Verde.

Cameroon will begin their tournament against Mali on 29 July before facing Ghana on 2 August. Their final group match will see them take on Cape Verde on 6 August.

With a mixture of experience, young talent and renewed determination, Cameroon will be hoping their return to the continental stage can mark the beginning of a new chapter and finally bring an end to their long wait for Women’s AFCON success.