Cameroon forward Gabrielle Aboudi Onguene has become the first player to feature at eight editions of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), describing the achievement as an honour after helping the Indomitable Lionesses begin their 2026 campaign with victory.
The 37-year-old reached the landmark during Cameroon’s 2-1 win over Mali in their opening Group D match at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
Introduced in the closing stages of the encounter, Aboudi Onguene immediately brought energy to Cameroon’s attack, causing problems down the left flank and nearly providing an assist as the Indomitable Lionesses searched for a decisive third goal.
“It is an honour for me to be here, to play the game that I love, that has given me so much. To represent Cameroon has been a dream come true over the years,” she said after the match.
The veteran forward made her WAFCON debut in 2008 and has since established herself as one of the competition’s most recognisable figures, earning a reputation as a prolific goalscorer, inspirational leader and role model across African women’s football.
Reflecting on the longevity of her career, Aboudi Onguene credited discipline and professionalism as the keys to maintaining her place at the highest level.
“Discipline has been at the centre of everything that I do. I take good care of my body and I always make sure that I eat very well and rest too. This is important in professional football,” she told CAFOnline.
She also reflected on her journey from a teenage prospect to one of Cameroon’s greatest footballers.
“It has been a long journey since 2008. When I remember coming on for a few minutes, I am left truly grateful for that single opportunity to showcase my talent and thereafter working hard to be consistent and be a regular on the national team,” she added.
Aboudi Onguene’s historic eighth WAFCON appearance further cements her legacy as one of the continent’s most accomplished players, with her experience expected to play a vital role as Cameroon continue their quest for continental success in Morocco.