By Amaechi Agbo
Head coach of the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon, Valentine Nguele has named a 26-playe for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, retaining a core of experienced stars despite recent unrest within the Indomitable Lionesses camp ahead of the continental showpiece in Morocco.
The tournament will run from July 25 to August 16, with Cameroon aiming to mount a strong challenge for the title through a balanced squad that blends youth and experience.
After trimming an initial provisional list, Nguele and her coaching staff settled on three goalkeepers, nine defenders, seven midfielders and seven forwards for the final roster.
Goalkeepers Cathy Biya, Ange Bawou and Bihina earned places in the squad, while the technical crew opted to maintain faith in veteran campaigners Aboudi Onguene and Ngo Mbeleck.
Their inclusion underlines the coach’s belief that experienced players will play a vital role in guiding the team’s younger talents during the championship.
However, the squad will be without two influential figures, Nchout Njoya Ajara and Falone Meffometou, who both left the team’s training camp before the final selection.
No official explanation has been provided for their departures, leaving questions over the circumstances surrounding their exits.
The announcement comes amid reports of internal challenges within the squad, but Nguele remained committed to his selection strategy, insisting on continuity as Cameroon prepares for one of Africa’s biggest women’s football competitions.
With the final squad now confirmed, the Indomitable Lionesses will turn their attention to fine-tuning preparations as they seek to reclaim their place among the continent’s elite when the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco later this month.
