Nigeria’s Super Falcons crashed out of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after suffering a painful 1–0 defeat to rivals Cameroon in a fiercely contested quarter-final in Casablanca on Sunday night.
The defending champions dominated large parts of the match but were unable to find a way past a determined Cameroonian defence.
Cameroon took the lead in the 19th minute through a well-taken free-kick, catching Nigeria off guard and giving the Indomitable Lionesses an advantage against the run of play.
The Super Falcons responded strongly and created several opportunities. Gift Monday and Jennifer Echegini both came close to scoring, but Cameroon goalkeeper Michaely made important saves to keep her side ahead.
Nigeria coach Justin Madugu made his first change in the 38th minute, bringing on Uchenna Kanu for Rinsola Babajide as the Falcons looked for a way back into the game.
After the break, Madugu introduced more attacking options, with Toni Payne, Esther Okoronkwo and Asisat Oshoala joining the action.
Nigeria continued to dominate possession and territory, spending long periods in Cameroon’s half and putting the Lionesses under intense pressure.
However, Cameroon remained organised and disciplined at the back, frustrating the Super Falcons throughout the second half.
Even during the late pressure in stoppage time, Nigeria could not find the equaliser needed to take the match into extra time.
The result ends the Super Falcons’ hopes of defending their WAFCON title, but their 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup hopes remain alive.
Nigeria will now turn their attention to a crucial play-off against South Africa’s Banyana Banyana later this week. The winner will advance to the inter-confederation play-off for a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
For the Super Falcons, the focus now shifts from retaining their continental crown to keeping their World Cup dream alive.
