Sinforosa Eyang Nchama (15 de Agosto): “We want to go as far as possible.”
The women’s football landscape in Equatorial Guinea is experiencing a new dawn — and 15 de Agosto stands proudly at the heart of this transformation. For the first time in their history, the club has qualified for the CAF Women’s Champions League, marking a historic milestone for the country and the latest chapter in its growing legacy on the continental stage.
At the helm is Sinforosa Eyang Nchama, a trailblazing young coach whose leadership reflects the new face of African women’s football — ambitious, educated, and inspired by experience at the highest level.
A former vice-captain of the Equatorial Guinea national team during the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup, Eyang now channels that elite background into her coaching philosophy, blending discipline, tactical awareness, and mental resilience.
“It’s an immense honour for us,” she says. “This qualification is not only a success for 15 de Agosto but also a major step forward for women’s football in Equatorial Guinea. Being the third club from our country to reach this stage, after Malabo Kings and Hurricanes, is a true symbol of progress and recognition.”
A new generation leading the way
At just 31, Eyang represents a new generation of African women coaches determined to redefine success through preparation and collective effort. Her journey — from World Cup player to continental coach — gives her a rare perspective on what it takes to compete at the top.
“Playing at the World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations taught me a lot about leadership and responsibility,” she reflects. “Those experiences shaped my methods today — how I plan training, manage emotions, and instil focus. They gave me confidence and credibility, both on and off the pitch.”
That experience has translated into tangible results. Under her guidance, 15 de Agosto have combined technical balance with mental toughness.
Carrying Equatorial Guinea’s torch
Equatorial Guinea continues to be a strong representative of Central African women’s football on the continental scene. With Malabo Kings reaching the semi-finals in 2021 and Hurricanes making their debut in 2023, 15 de Agosto’s qualification consolidates the country’s consistent presence among Africa’s elite.
“It shows that our football is evolving — becoming more competitive and mature,” says Eyang. “Representing Central Africa is never easy, but our qualification proves that our work is paying off. We’re proud to carry our flag high and to show that Equatorial Guinea remains one of the strongholds of African women’s football.”
Eyes on the next horizon
This year’s CAF Women’s Champions League holds a special meaning. For the first time, the tournament will also serve as a pathway to the inaugural FIFA Women’s Club World Cup, adding an extra layer of motivation for all participants.
“It’s fantastic,” Eyang smiles. “It’s not just about winning — it’s about learning, growing, and measuring ourselves against the best. Competing for a place at a FIFA tournament is a dream for any coach or player. We want to represent Africa and show that we can play with intensity, intelligence, and pride.”
When asked about her inspirations, Eyang points to José Mourinho, citing his tactical mastery and calm presence as traits she admires and adapts to her own style.
“I learn from many coaches, but I’ve always appreciated Mourinho’s ability to manage games and motivate his players,” she notes. “Of course, I adapt that to our reality and our players — but the principles of structure and calmness are the same.”
“Our goal is to reach the knockout stage — and then, who knows?” Eyang says with determination. “Malabo Kings reached the semi-finals, Hurricanes stopped in the group stage. This time, we want to go even further. Every match will be an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to strengthen our identity.”
Her message to the supporters is one of unity and gratitude.
“We want our fans to stay with us — from home or in the stands,” she insists. “Their energy and passion drive us forward. We’ll give everything to make them proud and to represent Equatorial Guinea with dignity and heart.”
Lessons from the pitch
As a player who once wore the national armband, Eyang’s core message to her squad remains rooted in the values that defined her own career.
“The match isn’t over until the final whistle,” she says firmly. “Stay focused, stay disciplined, and fight until the end. That’s the mentality I carried as a player — and it’s the one I now try to pass on as a coach.”
A nation inspired
With youth, experience, and vision on her side, Sinforosa Eyang Nchama embodies the next chapter of Equatorial Guinean football — one that looks beyond participation to performance, and beyond borders to the world stage.