Cameroon have knocked Nigeria out of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the defending champions.
The Indomitable Lionesses started the quarter-final strongly and put the Super Falcons under pressure from the opening stages. Their dominance was rewarded in the 19th minute when Nyadjou fired a free-kick past Nigeria goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie to give Cameroon the lead.
Nigeria struggled to create clear-cut opportunities in the first half, with Cameroon goalkeeper Michaely proving difficult to beat. Gift Monday and Jennifer Echegini both came close, but Michaely produced important saves to preserve Cameroon’s advantage.
The Super Falcons returned for the second half with greater urgency, attacking relentlessly in search of an equaliser. However, Michaely continued to frustrate Nigeria, making a series of impressive saves to keep her side in front.
Nigeria came closest late in the match when Esther Okoronkwo missed a golden opportunity in the 93rd minute, as Cameroon held on through eight minutes of added time to seal a memorable victory.
The result ends Nigeria’s campaign as defending champions and brings their hopes of winning a record-extending 11th WAFCON title to an end.
For Cameroon, the victory sends them into the semi-finals and also secures their automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
The Indomitable Lionesses have now produced one of the biggest upsets of the tournament, ending Nigeria’s long-standing dominance in African women’s football.
