The Indomitable Lionesses secured their maiden championship in 2026, joining Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, and South Africa in an exclusive club.

The landscape of African women's football witnessed a historic shift in 2026 when Cameroon claimed their first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title. In a decisive final held in Rabat, Morocco, the Indomitable Lionesses delivered a dominant performance, defeating Malawi with a convincing 3-0 scoreline.

This triumph marked the end of a long journey for Cameroon, who had previously reached the WAFCON final three times without securing the coveted continental trophy. Their breakthrough victory was spearheaded by a stellar first-half display, where all three goals were netted, effectively sealing their championship aspirations.

Marie Ngah Manga was the standout player, scoring twice, while Naomi Eto added another goal to complete the rout. This historic win not only brought long-awaited glory to Cameroon but also elevated them to an elite group, making them only the fourth country to ever lift the WAFCON trophy, according to reporting by Vanguard Nigeria - Sports.

Nigeria: The Super Falcons' Unrivaled Dominance

Since the competition's inception in 1991, Nigeria has established itself as the undisputed powerhouse of African women's football. The Super Falcons boast an incredible record of ten WAFCON titles, setting a benchmark for consistency and success on the continent.

Their initial victory came in 1998, and they quickly followed it with a period of absolute dominance, securing three consecutive championships between 2000 and 2004. Nigeria continued their winning ways, lifting the trophy in 2006, 2010, 2014, 2016, and 2018. Their tenth continental crown arrived in 2025 with a remarkable 3-2 comeback victory against hosts Morocco in the final, overcoming a two-goal deficit.

Equatorial Guinea: Breaking the Nigerian Monopoly

Equatorial Guinea emerged as the first nation to challenge Nigeria's stranglehold on the WAFCON trophy, becoming the second-most successful team in the tournament's history with two titles. Their maiden triumph occurred on home soil in 2008, where they defeated South Africa 2-1 in the final after famously knocking out Nigeria in the semi-finals.

Their second championship came in 2012, showcasing their growing prowess. The National Nzalang defeated Cameroon 2-0 in the semi-final before thrashing South Africa 4-0 in the final, further solidifying their place among the continent's elite.

South Africa: Banyana Banyana's Historic Breakthrough

For many years, South Africa's Banyana Banyana were known for consistently reaching the WAFCON final but falling short. They had been runners-up five times before finally breaking their duck in 2022. Their persistence paid off as they secured their first-ever WAFCON title.

The historic win for South Africa took place in Rabat, Morocco, where they defeated the hosts 2-1 in a hard-fought final. This victory marked a significant milestone for Banyana Banyana, fulfilling years of ambition and near misses.

Cameroon: The Indomitable Lionesses' Long-Awaited Triumph

Cameroon officially joined this exclusive list of WAFCON champions in 2026, clinching their maiden title after years of valiant attempts. The Indomitable Lionesses had previously featured in the final on three occasions but were unable to claim the ultimate prize until their decisive performance in Rabat.

Against Malawi, Cameroon showcased their strength with a commanding 3-0 victory. Marie Ngah Manga proved instrumental with two goals, while Naomi Eto also found the back of the net, ensuring Cameroon finally secured their place in African women's football history. Their win cemented them as the fourth nation to win the WAFCON, standing alongside Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, and South Africa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which country has won the most Women's Africa Cup of Nations titles?

Nigeria holds the record for the most Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) titles, having won the tournament a remarkable 10 times.

When did the Women's Africa Cup of Nations competition begin?

The Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) competition officially began in 1991.

Who were the goal scorers for Cameroon in the 2026 WAFCON final?

In the 2026 WAFCON final, Marie Ngah Manga scored twice for Cameroon, and Naomi Eto added another goal, securing their 3-0 victory over Malawi.

Which teams has Equatorial Guinea defeated in WAFCON finals?

Equatorial Guinea has won two WAFCON titles, defeating South Africa 2-1 in the 2008 final and later thrashing South Africa 4-0 in the 2012 final.

How many times had Cameroon been runners-up before winning their first WAFCON title?

Cameroon had finished as runners-up in the Women's Africa Cup of Nations three times before finally securing their maiden title in 2026.