The Indomitable Lioness have eliminated the defending champions after a first-half goal proved decisive, with Cameroon holding on to their lead until the final whistle in Casablanca, Morocco.
First Half
The game started with both sides maintaining composure in the opening minutes, but unfortunately for the Nigerian women, they went into the break trailing 1-0 after Cameroonian forward Myriam Nyadjou converted a free kick in the 20th minute.
Despite falling behind, Nigeria controlled proceedings for much of the half, enjoying 62% ball possession compared to Cameroon’s 38%. The Super Falcons also created more opportunities, recording eight shots, with five on target.
Cameroon, however, made their only shot on target count, as Nyadjou’s well-taken free kick gave the Indomitable Lioness the lead.
Second Half
The second half resumed with Nigeria desperate to level the scoreline, as the Super Falcons increased the pressure on the Cameroonian defence in search of an equaliser.
Nigeria continued to dominate possession and dictate the tempo of the game, forcing Cameroon to sit deeper and defend their slender lead.
By the 70-minute mark, Nigeria had maintained 63% possession and registered four shots, with two on target. However, despite their dominance and sustained pressure, the Super Falcons were yet to create a clear-cut big chance, as Cameroon remained resolute at the back.
Esther Okoronkwo came closest to finding the equaliser for Nigeria, but the Super Falcons were unable to convert their chances as Cameroon held firm until the final whistle.
The defeat brings Nigeria’s 2026 WAFCON campaign to an abrupt end and means the defending champions will not automatically qualify for the 2027 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
The Super Falcons’ hopes of making it to the World Cup now depend on successfully navigating the playoff qualification route.
