Cameroon have won the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations for the first time, defeating Malawi 3-0 in Sunday’s final in Rabat.

Marie Ngah scored twice, while Naomi Eto added another as the Indomitable Lionesses secured their first continental title after three previous runner-up finishes.

Cameroon entered the tournament after receiving a second chance following their failure to qualify. They joined the competition alongside other high-ranked teams that missed out on qualification.

Malawi started strongly, with Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga creating early opportunities, but Cameroon took control before the break.

Ngah opened the scoring in the 20th minute before Eto doubled the lead nine minutes later. Ngah then struck again in added time to give Cameroon a commanding 3-0 advantage at half-time.

Malawi improved after the break and created chances but could not find a way past the Cameroonian defence.

The result ends Malawi’s remarkable run to their first WAFCON final, while Cameroon claim their first-ever women’s African championship.