Rinsola Babajide hails Cameroon’s historic WAFCON triumph

Super Falcons star Rinsola Babajide took to X to congratulate the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon after they secured their first Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title, following a 3‑0 victory over Malawi in the final on Sunday in Rabat.

Cameroon dominate final in Rabat

Cameroon cruised to a 3‑0 win over tournament debutants Malawi in the Sunday final staged in Rabat, Africa. The result gave the Indomitable Lionesses a clean sheet and a commanding performance in the tournament’s climax.

Marie Ngah Manga’s close‑range header broke the deadlock in the 20th minute, putting Cameroon ahead. Naomi Eto doubled the lead ten minutes later with a stunning volley, and in the third minute of first‑half added time she rounded goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo before laying the ball off for Manga to net her fifth final goal.

Reacting on her X handle, Babajide posted, “Congrats to Cameroon for winning the WAFCON 👏🏾.” The message highlighted the significance of the historic triumph for the Indomitable Lionesses.

Babajide featured in several Super Falcons matches as Nigeria failed to defend their WAFCON crown and, for the first time, missed qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Her experience underscores the challenges the Nigerian side faced this tournament.

Malawi entered the competition as the lowest‑ranked side at 153rd in the world, yet reached the final powered by the attacking prowess of the Chawinga sisters, Tabitha and Temwa. Their run was halted by a disciplined Cameroon defence that denied a fairytale ending.

The Cameroonian backline marshalled the Southern Africans effectively, limiting their chances and preserving the clean sheet. Their organization left little room for Malawi’s forwards to create clear opportunities.

World Cup spots confirmed

With the title secured, Cameroon, Malawi, hosts Morocco and Algeria have automatically qualified for the upcoming Women’s World Cup. South Africa and Ghana retain a pathway to join the quartet through the Intercontinental playoffs.