Grace Davilla Mendoua puts Cameroon in front against Cape Verde at Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026

Cameroon hold the advantage at half-time against Cape Verde at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 after FC Ebolowa Filles forward Grace Davilla Mendoua scored the opening goal.

The goal capped a dominant first-half display from Cameroon, who controlled the contest and eventually found the breakthrough before the interval. Mendoua’s finish gave the Indomitable Lionesses a reward for their pressure and placed them in a strong position going into the second half.

The match carries little significance in terms of the final qualification picture. Cameroon have already secured their place in the next stage of the competition, meaning they entered the fixture without the same level of pressure associated with a decisive group match.

However, the Indomitable Lionesses are still determined to maintain their momentum. Their performance before the break reflected that ambition, with the team taking the initiative and making the most of their superiority to establish the lead.

For Cape Verde, the situation is different. They have been officially eliminated from the tournament and are playing primarily for pride. Their objective is to produce a positive final impression and leave the competition with a result that reflects the effort of the squad.

The Cape Verde players now face the task of responding after falling behind. They will need to take greater risks in the second half if they are to find a way back into the match, while also trying to contain a Cameroon side that has already shown it can control the game.

Cameroon’s technical staff must decide how aggressively to pursue a second goal. With qualification already secured, the team may look to manage its advantage and protect the players’ energy for the challenges still ahead in the tournament.

That balance could shape the remainder of the contest. The Indomitable Lionesses have the lead and the confidence that comes from a strong opening period, but they will also want to avoid unnecessary exertion while protecting their position.

Cape Verde, meanwhile, have little reason to hold back. With their tournament run already coming to an end, their focus will be on mounting a determined fightback and signing off on a positive note.

The second half therefore presents contrasting priorities. Cameroon will aim to control the pace, preserve their advantage and keep their wider campaign on course. Cape Verde will be seeking an equaliser and hoping their response can change the direction of the game after Mendoua’s first-half intervention.