Cameroon produced an encouraging comeback performance ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), recovering from an early setback to beat Benin 3-1 in a friendly match in Yaoundé.
The victory at the Military Stadium provided the Indomitable Lionesses with a timely confidence boost as they completed their final home test before travelling to Morocco for the continental tournament, which begins in less than two weeks.
After falling behind against the Amazons of Benin, Cameroon responded with determination to overturn the deficit, with Nina Nguele scoring twice before Gisèle Ngah Manga added a third goal to seal an impressive win.
The result offers an early indication of the progress being made under the team’s new coaching staff led by Valentine Nguele, whose preparations for the tournament have been closely watched by supporters.
Cameroon entered the friendly looking to build momentum before the start of WAFCON, where they have been drawn in a challenging Group D alongside Ghana, Mali and Cape Verde.
Although Benin took the lead, the Indomitable Lionesses refused to allow the setback to derail their preparations.
Instead, they mounted a spirited comeback that reflected both resilience and attacking quality, characteristics they will hope to carry into the tournament in Morocco.
Nina Nguele emerged as the standout performer by scoring twice to put Cameroon in control before Gisèle Ngah Manga, the 2023 Cameroonian Ballon d’Or winner, completed the scoring.
The trio of goals rewarded a performance that demonstrated the work carried out during the team’s training camp under the new technical team.
For Valentine Nguele and her coaching staff, the friendly provided another valuable opportunity to assess the squad before the continental competition gets underway.
The comeback victory also offered encouragement that the players are adapting well to the tactical ideas introduced during preparations.
Cameroon’s ability to recover after conceding first was one of the most positive aspects of the performance.
Rather than allowing the early goal to affect their confidence, the Lionesses responded with composure and gradually took control of the contest.
That fighting spirit will be vital when they face some of Africa’s strongest teams during WAFCON.
The tournament represents another important opportunity for Cameroon to re-establish themselves among the continent’s leading women’s national teams.
Group D promises to provide a stern examination, with Ghana, Mali and Cape Verde all competing for a place in the knockout rounds.
Saturday’s victory therefore arrives at an important moment, giving the squad renewed belief before the competition begins.
