Gabrielle Aboudi Honored by Moscow Giants on International Women’s Day

By Angu Lesley

Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon

Cameroon women’s national team captain Gabrielle Aboudi Onguéné received special recognition in Russia over the weekend as she was honored during celebrations marking International Women’s Day in Moscow.

The veteran Indomitable Lionesses forward was invited to perform the ceremonial kickoff before the Moscow derby between CSKA Moscow and Spartak Moscow, a symbolic gesture acknowledging her long-standing contribution to women’s football in Russia. The high-profile encounter drew close to 10,000 spectators, who witnessed the Cameroonian star receive warm applause before the match got underway.

Aboudi, who plays for the women’s team of CSKA Moscow, has spent nearly a decade within the club’s setup and is widely regarded as one of the most influential African players to feature in Moscow’s football scene. Over the years, her performances and leadership have contributed significantly to the growth and success of the CSKA women’s side, earning her respect from fans and clubs across the Russian capital.

The derby itself also featured two Cameroonian internationals. Nicolas Moumi Ngamaleu, a forward for the Indomitable Lions, was in action and found the back of the net during the encounter, while Christopher Wooh, a central defender for Spartak Moscow and Cameroon, also took part in the match.

Aboudi’s recognition in Moscow is another highlight in a distinguished career that has seen her play across several clubs in Europe after beginning her journey in Cameroon. On the international stage, she has represented Cameroon in six editions of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, two FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments, and one Olympic Games.

One of her most memorable moments with the Indomitable Lionesses came in 2016 when Cameroon finished runners-up at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, with Aboudi earning a place in the tournament’s Best XI after an impressive campaign.

Despite being nominated several times for the CAF African Women’s Footballer of the Year, the experienced forward is yet to claim the prestigious continental prize. Nonetheless, her longevity, leadership, and impact on the game continue to make her one of Cameroon’s most respected footballers on the international stage.