At the opening of the women’s U18 futsal competition at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG), Senegal made an impressive start at the Iba Mar Diop Complex, thrashing Fiji 8–1 thanks to four goals from Marième Niang to take the lead in Group A. In Group B, Cameroon lost 4–2 to Italy, a defeat that coach Louis René Épée attributed to a lack of experience at the highest level. Despite the setback, player Andrea Thomas Mimbama remains confident and has promised a quick response in the upcoming matches.
The women’s U18 futsal tournament at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games delivered its first results on 1 November 2026, with mixed fortunes for the African nations. In Group A, Senegal made a strong impression in front of their home crowd at the Iba Mar Diop Complex, securing a convincing 8–1 victory over Fiji. Meanwhile, Cameroon suffered a 4–2 defeat against an experienced Italian side in Group B. Both teams remain in contention with genuine hopes of qualifying, although Senegal has made an ideal start to its campaign in front of its home supporters.
I think it was important to start the competition well and win our opening match. The players were determined, and it paid off. However, there is still room for improvement. We will keep working on our weaknesses and hope to be more clinical in front of goal next time.
Woulimata Sèye, Head Coach of the U18 Women’s National Futsal Team
Despite their opening defeat in Group B, the mood remains positive within the Cameroon camp. While the coaching staff acknowledges the team’s lack of experience at this level, they view the match as a valuable learning opportunity. The players, aware of the improvements needed, remain fully determined to rise to the challenge.
This defeat was down to our lack of experience in high-level futsal. We have the potential and the ability to respond, create chances and compete throughout the match. However, we still have a lot to learn when it comes to the demands of top-level futsal. This experience will help us improve, close the gap on the best teams and become more competitive at this level.
Louis René Épée, Head Coach of the U18 Women’s National Futsal Team
It’s true that we lost, but we won’t give up because we still have more matches to play. We remain focused and determined to correct the mistakes we made.
Andrea Thomas Mimbama, Futsal player
Cameroon and Senegal will be back in action in the next round, aiming to secure their places in the knockout stages.
