The 37-year-old veteran forward achieved this unprecedented milestone during the Indomitable Lionesses’ opening group stage match against Mali at the 2026 WAFCON in Morocco. By doing so, she broke the long-standing record of seven tournament appearances previously held by Nigerian defense icon Onome Ebi. Following the achievement, Onguéné delivered a powerful and inspiring statement addressing her incredible sports longevity, her mental fortitude, and her devotion to the national colors.
⚽ The Historic Milestone: 8 Tournament Appearances
Affectionately known as “OG7”, Onguéné’s WAFCON journey spans nearly two decades, with her tournament debut dating back to 2008 in Equatorial Guinea. Having consistently represented Cameroon across multiple generations, her eighth appearance cements her status as an enduring icon of continental women’s football.
Gabrielle Onguéné’s WAFCON journey spans nearly two decades, with her record-breaking eighth tournament appearance in 2026 cementing her status as an enduring icon of continental women’s football. Her tournament milestones include a 2008 debut in Equatorial Guinea, reaching the 2014 and 2016 finals as a runner-up, and consistent podium finishes in 2012 and 2018. For more details on her career, visit the Moghamo United FC website.
🎙️ “Old Age is a State of Mind”
Responding to public discussions regarding her age and role in the squad, Onguéné delivered a defiant message during a recent press layout. She emphasized that her primary motivation is simply to answer the call of duty, regardless of the records attached to her name.
“I have never had to count my participations. When I have the honor of being called up, when a coach has confidence in me, I always show up. It’s when I’m called up among the 26 that some people remind me that I’m playing my eighth Africa Cup of Nations. My first goal is always to defend my country’s colors. I say it again, thank you once more to the new staff for the trust.
Many were just looking at my age. I look young. Old age is a state of mind. I’m like an 18-year-old girl. If I felt like a 37-year-old girl, I wouldn’t have been able to handle the physical preparation. I will always show up whenever a coach needs me, whenever my young sisters need me.”
🏆 Chasing the Ultimate Dream
While her legacy as a trailblazer is permanently verified, Onguéné enters the 2026 tournament fiercely chasing the one achievement that has eluded her illustrious career: lifting the WAFCON trophy. Having suffered two heartbreaking final defeats in 2014 and 2016, the legendary attacker is committed to guiding Cameroon’s younger crop of talent to continental glory in Morocco
