Nigeria’s reign as African champions came to an end on Sunday after the Super Falcons suffered a 1-0 quarter-final defeat to Cameroon at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium, ending their title defence at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The defeat also leaves Nigeria facing a more difficult route to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, with the Super Falcons now required to go through the playoff route to secure qualification.
The quarter-final clash was closely contested, with both teams engaging in intense physical battles and fierce exchanges in midfield from the opening whistle.
Cameroon broke the deadlock in the 20th minute when forward Myriam Nyadjou found the back of the net with what proved to be the decisive goal.
Nigeria responded by increasing the pressure in search of an equaliser, but struggled to penetrate a disciplined Cameroonian defence.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade attempted to drive Nigeria forward and dictate play through possession, but the Super Falcons were largely restricted to efforts from distance and failed to create clear-cut opportunities before the break.
Cameroon returned from half-time with greater intensity, pressing higher up the pitch and disrupting Nigeria’s attempts to build from the back.
The Super Falcons continued to push for an equaliser and threw players forward in the closing stages, including during stoppage time, but Cameroon’s defence held firm to secure a historic victory.
The result marks Cameroon’s first knockout-stage victory over Nigeria at the WAFCON since the 2012 third-place play-off.
Cameroon’s victory sends the Indomitable Lionesses into the semi-finals, securing a top-four finish and an automatic qualification spot for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Nigeria, meanwhile, must now navigate the playoff tournament to keep their hopes of appearing at the 2027 Women’s World Cup alive.
