Cameroon defender Colette Ndzana has urged the Indomitable Lionesses to remain focused on their task as they prepare to face Malawi in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final in Rabat.
The two teams will meet at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium on Sunday in a final that will produce a first-time WAFCON champion, with neither Cameroon nor Malawi having previously won the continental women’s title.
Ndzana, who serves as Cameroon’s vice-captain, acknowledged the importance of the supporters but warned her team-mates that the atmosphere surrounding the occasion must not distract them from their preparations.
Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, the defender said the backing of the Cameroonian public had provided the team with additional motivation throughout the tournament.
“The fans are very important to us. Their support gives us strength and motivation in every match. However, our priority remains to stay focused on our objective. We must remain focused on our game plan and not let ourselves be distracted by the outside environment,” said Colette Ndzana.
The defender’s message comes as Cameroon prepare for one of the biggest matches in the country’s recent women’s football history.
Victory would give the Indomitable Lionesses their first WAFCON title, while Malawi are also chasing a maiden continental crown after reaching the final for the first time.
For Ndzana, maintaining discipline and emotional control will be particularly important given the significance of the occasion.
The vice-captain believes the players must remain committed to their instructions throughout the match and avoid allowing the excitement around the final to affect their decision-making.
“We greatly appreciate the public’s support, but our mental strength must allow us to stay focused from start to finish. Their support means a lot, but the most important thing for us is to remain focused, disciplined, and fully committed to achieving our goal.”
The comments underline the balance Cameroon will need to strike in front of what is expected to be a passionate crowd in Rabat.
While the support of their fans can provide an emotional lift, Ndzana believes the outcome will ultimately depend on what Cameroon produce on the pitch.
The Lionesses will face a Malawian side that has already made history by reaching the final in its debut appearance at the tournament.
