CASABLANCA, Morocco — Tournament debutants Cape Verde earned their first-ever point at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after holding Cameroon to a 1-1 draw in their final Group D match on Thursday.
Grâce Mendoua gave the Indomitable Lionesses the lead in the 28th minute, finishing from the centre of the penalty area after good work from Ndjoah Eto.
Cape Verde responded strongly after the break. Ivania Moreira produced a superb strike into the top corner in the 50th minute to level the scores and spark celebrations among the island nation’s players and staff.
Despite dominating possession and creating more chances, Cameroon were unable to find a winner. The draw was enough for the Lionesses to finish top of Group D and secure a quarter-final meeting with Nigeria.
For Cape Verde, the result marked a significant milestone on their maiden appearance at the continental finals. Although they exit the tournament at the group stage, the point against one of Africa’s traditional powers provided a positive end to their campaign.
The match was played at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.
