Cameroon's U20 Indomitable Lionesses have started their campaign to qualify for the 2026 FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in Poland with a home victory against Tanzania. In the first leg of the fourth and final round of the qualifiers, the Cameroonians overcame a difficult start to lead 2-1 at halftime.
The match started badly for Cameroon, with Wilfrieda scoring for Tanzania in the 15th minute, putting pressure on the home team. The Indomitable Lionesses took time to find their feet, but gradually managed to turn the tide. The team's captain equalized in the 35th minute with a well-placed free kick on the left side, giving her team fresh momentum.
Revitalized by this equalizer, the Cameroonians began to dominate the match. They intensified their attacks, testing the Tanzanian defense. Just before halftime, Kiki Meva scored Cameroon's second goal following a well-constructed team move. This goal allowed the Lionesses to go into the break with a crucial advantage.
This first leg was played in Yaoundé. The return match is scheduled for next week in Tanzania. At stake is a place at the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup, which will be held in Poland from September 5 to 27, 2026.
Cameroon coach Hassan Balla stressed the importance of focus and patience for this final round of qualifiers, warning that Tanzania are a physical and well-prepared team. Balla, who led Cameroon to their first-ever U20 Women's World Cup qualification two years ago in Colombia, hopes to repeat that feat.
If Cameroon qualify for Poland 2026, team captain Nyadjou could face a busy schedule, as she could also participate in the CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations (July 25 to August 16). Balla is confident in Nyadjou's ability to handle these demands, highlighting her leadership role and versatility on the pitch.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) organizes this biennial competition to determine which African teams will participate in the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup. Four African teams will qualify for the tournament in Poland.
With this home victory, the Indomitable Lionesses have taken an important step towards qualification. The return match in Tanzania will be decisive in determining whether they reach the final tournament.
