Cameroon’s Lionesses Eager to Rise Again at 2026 AFCON BODY: BUEA, Cameroon – The Indomitable Lionesses are poised to return to the forefront of African women’s football at the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in 2026. After a missed opportunity at the previous tournament, Cameroon is brimming with ambition to reclaim its status as a dominant force in the sport. With a focus on regaining its place among Africa’s elite and aiming for qualification at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, the team is set to embark on a journey of revival.
The Lionesses secured their spot in the expanded 16-team tournament following a revised qualification format based on FIFA rankings. Despite a disappointing qualifying round where they were eliminated by Algeria, the expansion of the tournament from 12 to 16 teams granted Cameroon a second opportunity, which they capitalized on with a strong continental ranking. This qualification marks a new beginning for the national team, which aims to rebuild and restore its reputation as a consistent and formidable force.
The leadership of newly appointed head coach Valentine Nguele is a testament to the federation’s belief in local coaching talent. Nguele’s successful tenure at FC Ebolowa Girls, where she achieved a 16-match unbeaten run, has earned her national recognition and the trust to lead the team to continental prominence. Cameroon’s history in the Women’s AFCON is rich with appearances and impressive performances.
The Lionesses have reached the final three times, finishing third on three other occasions, showcasing their consistent presence among Africa’s top teams.
However, the absence of a continental title remains a major objective for the team.
The expectations for the 2026 tournament are high, especially with the rise of 21-year-old Naomi Eto, who has been named Cameroon’s Women’s Player of the Year for 2025.
The Paris Saint — Germain midfielder, currently on loan with Italian side Sassuolo, is seen as a key player, bringing creativity and composure to the national team.
The Indomitable Lionesses are not just aiming for a first — ever Women’s AFCON crown; they also seek to secure one of Africa’s four automatic qualification spots for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
As they prepare for the tournament in Morocco, the Lionesses are poised to write a new chapter in their history, aiming to restore national pride and reinforce their status as giants of African women’s football.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Panafricanvisions
Source: Pan African Visions
