2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations: Cameroon has one hand on the trophy at halftime

16.08.26 FT Africa Women Cup of Nations

Cameroon W

3

:

Malawi W

0

Cameroon is closing in on glory as the first half draws to a close. The Lionesses are up 3-0 against Malawi in the final of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations at Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.

So far, this final has been a showcase of Cameroonian power. Valentine Ngoueleu’s squad has applied relentless pressure from the opening whistle, dominating possession and dictating the tempo from the outset.

Ngah Manga and Ito make the difference

The opener came in the 20th minute. The unstoppable Marie Gisèle Ngah Manga pounced on a loose ball like a fox in the box and slotted home as Malawi’s defense was left scrambling. Then, in the 30th minute, from a corner kick, Naomie Ito found the back of the net. With her back to goal, she executed a stunning overhead kick to double the lead.

The third goal arrived in first-half stoppage time. Naomie Ito dribbled past the goalkeeper, who had come out recklessly, before delivering a pinpoint cross onto the head of Marie Gisèle Ngah Manga, who nodded in her second of the game. That brings her tally to five goals, drawing level with Temwa Chawinga, Barbra Banda, and Ines Konan.

Malawi powerless against the Cameroonian wall

Malawi has had few opportunities. Their best chances, mainly the rapid breaks from the Chawinga sisters, have been stifled by a Cameroonian defense that has conceded just two goals all tournament. With a 3-0 lead at halftime, the Women's Africa Cup of Nations trophy looks destined for Cameroon.

Nafongo TRAORE |

News Editorfr, ar, en

Nafongon Moussa TRAORE, Burkinabè de 25 ans, est passionné de football, est rédacteur pour Foot Africa et commentateur pour BurkiFoot.

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Cameroon W

Malawi W

Africa Women Cup of Nations