WAFCON 2026: Cameroon refuses favourites tag ahead of Mali opener

Cameroon women’s team coordinator, Dimitri Lipoff has played down expectations ahead of the Indomitable Lionesses’ opening fixture at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, insisting that they should not be considered favourites against a strong Mali side.

The Lioness will begin their WAFCON 2026 campaign on Wednesday, July 29, when they face Mali at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco, in a crucial Group D encounter.

Despite Cameroon’s rich history in African women’s football and their reputation as one of the continent’s traditional powerhouses, Lipoff believes Mali deserve significant respect and warned that the West African side will provide a difficult test.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, the Indomitable Lionesses’ coordinator dismissed suggestions that Cameroon enter the match as favourites, highlighting Mali’s preparation, squad stability and international experience.

“I don’t think we’re favourites, even against Mali. They have a very strong team, with most of their players based abroad,” Lipoff said.

“Unlike us, they’ve been preparing for several months, with the same coach, the same squad and a great deal of stability.”

The Cameroon official acknowledged that Mali have enjoyed a longer preparation period ahead of the tournament, giving them an advantage in terms of team cohesion and tactical understanding.

“They’ve had more time than us. But I know we’re very well prepared. Even though we’ve had little time, within the timeframe we were given, we could hardly have done any better.”

Cameroon will be hoping to make a strong start to their campaign as they look to challenge for the WAFCON title and improve on their previous tournament performances. The Indomitable Lionesses have consistently been among Africa’s elite women’s teams, having reached several semi-finals and finals in the competition’s history.

However, Mali arrive with growing confidence and a squad featuring several players based outside the country, making them a dangerous opponent in a group that promises to be highly competitive.

The opening Group D fixture will provide an early indication of both teams’ ambitions at the tournament, with Cameroon aiming to rely on their experience while Mali look to prove they belong among Africa’s best.

The match between Cameroon and Mali is scheduled to kick off at 8:00 pm GMT at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.