Cameroon Women opened their CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign in emphatic style on August 17, 2026, cruising to a 3-0 victory over Malawi Women. The result underlined Cameroon’s ambitions for the tournament and demonstrated the depth of talent available to the Lionesses as they aim to go all the way.

Match overview

From the first whistle, Cameroon dictated the tempo and took charge of the contest. Malawi, making their own push for continental recognition, were forced into a defensive shape and spent long spells chasing the ball. Cameroon’s pace on the wings and movement in the final third proved too much for the Malawian backline, and the 3-0 scoreline could easily have been wider.

Dominant performance from the Lionesses

Cameroon’s victory was built on a balanced combination of defensive solidity and attacking flair. Their high press disrupted Malawi’s build-up play, while in attack they showed patience and precision. The goals were the product of sustained pressure and well-timed runs into the box, with the team’s chemistry evident throughout the group-stage fixture.

• Early breakthrough: Cameroon settled nerves with an early opener that allowed them to dictate the rest of the match.
• Second-half cushion: A further goal after the break gave the Lionesses breathing room and effectively ended Malawi’s hopes of a comeback.
• Late flourish: A third goal sealed a statement win and put Cameroon top of their group on goal difference.

Tournament implications

This comprehensive victory gives Cameroon a major confidence boost and puts them in a strong position to advance from the group stage. For Malawi, the result is a setback, but there were enough moments of fight and organisation to suggest they can still challenge for a knockout berth if they sharpen their finishing and reduce individual errors.

The CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations continues to provide a platform for the continent’s finest female footballers, and Cameroon’s commanding display will have been noted by the other favourites. If they maintain this level, the Lionesses will be a formidable force as the tournament progresses.