Cameroon’s Valentine Nguele praises united team ahead of Malawi final

Cameroon head coach Valentine Nguele says the collective strength of her staff has been central to the Lionnes Indomptables’ unexpected run to the CAN Feminine 2026 final.

Nguele spoke at a news conference on Saturday, 15 August, on the eve of Cameroon’s meeting with Malawi. Appointed just two months ago, the Cameroonian coach has guided her side to within 90 minutes of another continental title.

The coach said she was proud to have taken the Lionnes Indomptables to the final, but stressed that the achievement belonged to the entire technical team. She also thanked FECAFOOT president Samuel Eto’o for giving her the opportunity to lead the national side.

“Indeed, it is an immense source of pride to experience these moments. I think that two months ago, few people would have imagined that we would be here today. It has been exactly two months since I took charge of this team, and above all I want to thank the president of FECAFOOT, Mr Samuel Eto’o, for the trust he placed in me by choosing me, as well as my colleagues,” said Nguele.

She said the unity within her coaching staff had created the conditions for the team’s progress. According to Nguele, the different members of her backroom team had complemented one another and helped the players reach the final.

“I am fortunate to work with competent, experienced people who possess tremendous human and professional qualities. They support me every day and help me to give the best of myself. This success is above all the result of genuine collective work.”

Nguele singled out physical trainer Philippe Ciccarini and goalkeeper coach Frederic Anikine for special praise. She believes their contributions have helped establish the momentum now surrounding the Lionnes Indomptables.

“We work in an atmosphere of seriousness, trust and excellent collaboration. Whether it is with Mr Les, Philippe, our physical trainer, or Frederic, the goalkeeper coach, everyone contributes to building this achievement. It is the work of an entire team united around the same objective.”

The coach admitted that reaching the final had been an emotional experience, but Cameroon’s focus is now firmly on completing the job against Malawi.

“Today, I am deeply moved and grateful. I give thanks to the Lord for everything he has allowed us to experience and I hope that this wonderful adventure will continue for a long time.”

The final will be played on Sunday. Cameroon will attempt to finish its campaign by lifting the continental trophy, while Malawi will be aiming to win the CAN Feminine for the first time and place its name on the competition’s roll of honour.