WAFCON 2026: Cameroon forward Gabrielle Aboudi Onguene fires stern warning ahead of Mali opener

The Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon forward Gabrielle Aboudi Onguene has expressed pride and determination ahead of their 2026 Women’s African Cup of Nations opening game against Mali, stressing the team is ready to embrace the challenge and enjoy the tournament experience.

Cameroon begin their WAFCON 2026 campaign on Wednesday, July 29, when they face Mali in their opening Group D fixture at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference, the experienced striker delivered a passionate message about Cameroon’s journey to the tournament, highlighting the sacrifices and difficulties the team overcame to secure their place among Africa’s best women’s football nations.

Onguene, who has been a key figure for the Indomitable Lionesses over the years, said the team feels honoured to be part of the continental showpiece and is determined to make the most of the opportunity.

“We’re proud to be here. As the coach so aptly put it, we know where we’ve come from. We know what it took for us to get here and to be able to take part in this greatest celebration of women’s football,” Onguene said.

The Cameroonian international acknowledged that the road to Morocco was not easy, but insisted that the challenges faced have only strengthened the team’s motivation and desire to compete at the highest level.

“Cameroon have come here to enjoy themselves and we didn’t want to miss out on this adventure,” she added.

The striker’s comments reflect the positive mindset within the Cameroon camp as they prepare for a difficult opening test against Mali. While the Indomitable Lionesses have a proud history in African women’s football, Onguene believes the team must approach every match with focus, humility and determination.

Cameroon have consistently been among the top-performing teams on the continent, with several appearances in the latter stages of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. However, the squad understands that every edition presents new challenges, with emerging teams continuing to raise the level of competition.

Ahead of their clash with Mali, the Indomitable Lionesses are hoping to combine their experience with a renewed hunger as they aim for a strong start to the tournament.

For Onguene and her teammates, being in Morocco is not only about competing for honours but also about representing Cameroon with pride and celebrating the growth of women’s football across Africa.