“Nobody believed in us” – Cameroon FA boss Samuel Eto’o reflects on WAFCON 2026 triumph

Cameroon Football Federation president Samuel Eto’o has opened up about the long journey behind the Indomitable Lionesses’ historic triumph at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The Lionesses returned to Yaoundé on Monday, August 17, to a hero’s welcome after securing the continental title, triggering celebrations across Cameroon.

Eto’o, who welcomed the victorious team, used the occasion to reflect on the difficulties and sacrifices that preceded their success.

The former Cameroon captain admitted that there were moments when he felt disappointed by the lack of recognition for the work being done, despite the efforts invested in developing and supporting the women’s national team.

According to Eto’o, the WAFCON triumph arrived after years of patience, persistence and belief, with the team eventually receiving the reward he felt their work deserved.

He also recalled the uncertainty surrounding the team when they initially left Yaoundé, saying few people expected them to return as African champions.

“For several years, I was sad because I told myself that we were putting in a lot of effort but receiving few rewards,” Eto’o said.

“But God, three times holy, gives what he wants, when he wants. We set off from Yaoundé in complete obscurity. Nobody believed in us.”

The victory has therefore taken on greater significance for Eto’o and the Cameroonian football community, representing not only a major achievement on the pitch but also the culmination of years of work behind the scenes.

The celebrations in Yaoundé marked an emotional homecoming for the Lionesses, who have now returned to Cameroon as champions of Africa.