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Ed Dove
Multiple Authors
The Super Falcons of Nigeria faced their worst-ever performance at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, losing 1-0 to Cameroon in the quarterfinals held in Casablanca. This result allowed the Indomitable Lionesses to secure a spot in next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The decisive moment came in the 20th minute when teenage defender Maeva Nyadjou scored with a powerful free kick. Despite Nigeria controlling ball possession and creating numerous opportunities, they could not find the equalizer.
This victory ensures Cameroon a place in the World Cup, where they will meet Morocco in the semifinals on Wednesday in Rabat. Meanwhile, Nigeria will have to battle South Africa in a play-in match for a chance to reach the inter-confederation playoffs for the World Cup in Brazil.
For the first time in their 35-year history in Africa’s premier women’s international competition, the Super Falcons have failed to reach at least the semifinals.
Throughout a challenging group stage where they lost to Tanzania and only narrowly overcame Zambia and Egypt, Nigeria had shown promise in earlier matches but faltered against Cameroon after Nyadjou’s stunning strike.
Colette Ndzana deceived the Nigerian defense at the set piece from about 30 yards out, positioning herself as a potential shooter, but it was Nyadjou who stepped up to unleash an impressive shot that left goalkeeper Chimaka Nnadozie scrambling. Nnadozie, having faced criticism for earlier performances, managed to get a hand to the shot but could only deflect it into the side netting.
Even without the injured Asisat Oshoala and out-of-form Esther Okoronwko, Nigeria showed attacking intent as they pressed their rivals. Early in the match, Rasheedat Ajibade forced a crucial save from Cameroonian goalkeeper Michaely Bihina, but Nigeria struggled to capitalize on their opportunities.
After conceding, Nigeria attempted a quick response, yet Gift Monday misfired on a promising cross from Ajibade, allowing Bihina to intervene effectively.
Bihina continued to shine as she thwarted attempts from Jennifer Echegini and Michelle Alozie, who was booked early in the match. Nigeria finished the first half with nine attempts but failed to convert any, clearly frustrated as the whistle blew.
Despite improved changes in the second half, with substitutions including Okoronwko and Toni Payne, Nigeria could not break through Bihina’s goalkeeping heroics. She delivered several crucial saves to keep Nigeria at bay.
With Nigeria’s desperation growing, Oshoala was introduced late in the game, but fate dealt a cruel blow when Okoronwko had the best chance to salvage a goal but chose to shoot wide instead of passing to the awaiting Oshoala.