Cameroon have won their first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title after defeating surprise finalists Malawi 3-0 in a one-sided final on Sunday.
Marie Ngah was the star of the show, scoring twice in the first half to put Cameroon firmly in control before the Indomitable Lionesses added a third goal to seal a historic triumph.
The victory ended Cameroon’s long wait for continental glory after they had previously lost three WAFCON finals.
Having fallen short on three occasions, Cameroon finally got it right on the fourth attempt, producing a commanding performance against a Malawi side appearing in the tournament’s final for the first time.
Malawi had enjoyed a remarkable run to the decisive match despite entering the tournament as one of the continent’s underdogs.
Ranked 153rd in the world and 32nd in Africa, Malawi defied expectations throughout the competition to reach their first-ever WAFCON final.
However, their fairytale campaign ended against a Cameroon side determined to finally get their hands on the continental trophy.
Ngah’s first-half double gave Cameroon a commanding advantage and allowed them to control the final without giving Malawi the opportunity to mount a comeback.
The 3-0 victory sparked celebrations as Cameroon finally added the WAFCON title to their list of achievements, while Malawi can take immense pride from a historic run that saw them reach the continental final for the first time.