Super Falcons’ Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title defence came to an agonizing end on Sunday night after Nigeria lost to Cameroon 1-0 in a quarter-final clash in Casablanca.
Eternal rivals Cameroon struck early in the 19th minute, capitalizing on a well-struck free kick to break the deadlock against the run of play.
Nigeria Lose To Cameroon
Nigeria responded with immediate intensity, mounting sustained physical and tactical pressure through the remainder of the first half while creating several clear-cut opportunities to restore parity.
Forward Gift Monday and midfielder Jennifer Echegini came close, but Cameroon’s Portugal-based goalkeeper Michaely stood as a rock.
Seeking a breakthrough, Justin Madugu introduced Uchenna Kanu in the 38th minute for Rinsola Babajide, followed by second-half tactical additions in Toni Payne, Esther Okoronkwo, and Asisat Oshoala.
Despite dominating territorial possession, pinning the Indomitable Lionesses inside their own half, and relentless attacking waves throughout stoppage time, the Falcons were unable to breach a resilient Cameroonian defensive wall.
As things stand, Nigeria will face South Africa’s Banyana Banyana later this week for a place in the Inter-Continental playoff for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup finals in Brazil.
As Nigeria lose to Cameroon, a new WAFCON champion will emerge, with Morocco, Cameroon, Algeria and Malawi having a chance at the title for the first time.
The four semi-finalists have also qualified for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.