The Cameroon women’s national football team, the Indomitable Lionesses, settled for a 1-1 draw against Cape Verde in their final Group D match of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Despite the stalemate, Cameroon successfully advanced as the group leaders and has set up a highly anticipated quarterfinal showdown against Nigeria next Sunday.
Match Timeline and Key Goals
Cameroon established strong authority early in the match, controlling possession before breaking the deadlock late in the first half:
- 28th Minute (0-1): Forward Grâce Davilla Mendoua (FC Ebolowa Filles) scored a brilliant opening goal from the center of the penalty box. A precise, decisive pass from star midfielder Naomi Eto created the goal.
- 51st Minute (1-1): Refusing to back down, Cape Verde found an equalizer early in the second half when Ivania Moreira fired a spectacular shot into the top corner.
Historic Milestone for Cape Verde
While the draw brought frustration for the Indomitable Lionesses, it represented a historic triumph for Cape Verde. Already eliminated before kick-off, the islanders held firm against one of the continent’s major powerhouses to secure their first-ever point in WAFCON history.
Looking Ahead to the Quarterfinals
By finishing at the summit of Group D, Cameroon secures a crucial seed but now faces its toughest challenge yet. The Indomitable Lionesses are scheduled to clash with rivals Nigeria in a blockbuster quarterfinal match next Sunday, August 9, 2026
