Nigeria’s Super Falcons on Sunday crashed out of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after a 1-0 quarter-final defeat to Cameroon in Casablanca, Morocco.
The result at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium ended Nigeria’s hopes of defending their continental crown and securing automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Cameroon struck the decisive blow in the 19th minute through 20-year-old Myriam Maéva Nyadjou. The youngstar unleashed a thunderous effort from distance that flew into the top corner beyond the outstretched Chiamaka Nnadozie, leaving the Nigerian goalkeeper with no chance.
Nigeria looked for an immediate response a minute later when Rasheedat Ajibade delivered a dangerous cross into the area, but Gift Monday was unable to make a clean connection after the initial effort had been comfortably dealt with.
The Super Falcons continued to push forward and came close again in the 28th minute. Rinsola Babajide’s delivery found Jennifer Echegini in a promising position, but her effort was well saved as Cameroon protected their slender advantage.
Despite Nigeria enjoying spells of possession and creating opportunities, Cameroon remained organised at the back and carried their 1-0 lead into the half-time break.
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Nigeria emerged for the second half with even more urgency and intent in search of an equaliser. However, they found Cameroon goalkeeper Michaely Bihina in inspired form.
The shot-stopper produced one of the saves of the tournament in the 70th minute, stretching out a strong hand to deny Uchenna Kanu’s powerful header and preserve her side’s lead.
Nigeria continued to press forward in the closing stages, but their efforts failed to yield a breakthrough against the disciplined Cameroonian side.
The victory secured Cameroon’s place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil and kept alive their quest for continental glory.
For Nigeria, the defeat means qualification hopes now depend on navigating the playoff route to reach the global tournament.
Cameroon joins Algeria and Morocco among the African teams that have already secured automatic qualification for the World Cup.
The continent’s remaining automatic ticket will be decided by the winner of the quarter-final clash between Ghana and Malawi.
Africa has six places at the expanded global tournament, with two additional teams set to qualify through playoff opportunities.
