WAFCON 2026: CAMEROON’s COACH BISSECK SACKED AFTER HISTORIC SLUMP
The Cameroon women’s national team, once a powerhouse of African football, has hit its lowest point in over three decades after failing to qualify for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) a setback that has now cost head coach Jean Baptiste Bisseck his job. Appointed in 2023 following a league-winning campaign with Cotonsport of Garoua, Bisseck’s tenure has been marred by a series of painful failures, including missing out on the 2024 AWCON, the 2024 Olympic Games, and now the 2026 WAFCON, which also rules the Lionnes Indomptables out of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Cameroon’s elimination marks a stunning fall from grace for a nation that has been a symbol of consistency in women’s football. Since their debut in 1991, the Lionesses have featured in 13 editions of the continental showpiece a tally bettered only by Nigeria (15) and South Africa (14). With four runner-up finishes (1991, 2004, 2014, 2016) and multiple podium appearances, Cameroon had never finished outside the top four except in 2000 and 2022 until now.
Their failure to qualify for two consecutive tournaments for the first time in history underscores the urgent need for renewal within the team’s structure and management. Once known for their resilience and flair, the Lionesses now face a defining moment: rebuilding confidence, rediscovering their identity, and restoring their place among Africa’s elite. The dismissal of Bisseck is seen as the first step in that process a signal that change is not just desired, but necessary.
