Nigeria’s reign as African champions came to an abrupt end on Sunday after a 1-0 quarter-final defeat to Cameroon at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium, eliminating the Super Falcons from the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The loss not only ends Nigeria’s title defence but also complicates their path to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, as they must now go through the playoff route to secure qualification.
The match was tightly contested from the start, with both sides engaging in physical defensive battles and fierce midfield exchanges.
Cameroon broke the deadlock in the 20th minute when forward Myriam Nyadjou scored the only goal of the encounter.
Despite mounting pressure in search of an equaliser, Nigeria struggled to break down a resolute Cameroonian backline.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade tried to orchestrate attacks through possession, but the Super Falcons were limited to long-range shots and could not create clear scoring chances in the first half.
Cameroon emerged with renewed intensity after halftime, pressing higher and disrupting Nigeria’s build-up play. The Super Falcons pushed forward relentlessly, including during added time, but the defence held firm to secure the victory.
The win marks Cameroon’s first knockout-stage victory over Nigeria in WAFCON since the 2012 third-place play-off.
With the result, Cameroon advances to the semi-finals, securing a top-four finish and an automatic berth in the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Nigeria, meanwhile, must now compete in a playoff tournament to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
