Achta Toko Njoya proved the difference, scoring the only goal of the encounter with a superb free-kick to send the Indomitable Lionesses into the last four and end Nigeria’s hopes of another continental title.
Despite qualifying for the knockout stage as Group C runners-up, the Super Falcons entered the contest as favourites, having dominated their previous meetings with Cameroon.
They started brightly and almost took the lead inside the opening minute when Rasheedat Ajibade’s close-range effort was brilliantly saved by Cameroon goalkeeper Michaely Bihina.
Nigeria continued to threaten, with Ajibade involved again as a misplaced throw-in from Michelle Alozie created an opportunity for the Paris Saint-Germain forward. However, she could not find the finish needed to beat Bihina.
Despite Nigeria enjoying greater possession, coach Valentine Nguele’s team remained compact and disciplined, frustrating the Super Falcons’ attacking moves. Notwithstanding, they gradually grew into the contest and were rewarded with a dangerous opportunity in the 17th minute.
Jennifer Echegini was adjudged to have fouled Toko Njoya near the edge of Nigeria’s penalty area, presenting Cameroon with a free-kick. 19-year-old Njoya stepped up and produced a fierce effort that flew beyond goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and sailed into the net.
Nigeria immediately looked for a response and came close to restoring parity two minutes later. Gift Monday found herself with an excellent opportunity after meeting a well-delivered cross from captain Ajibade, but missed a sitter with only Bihina to beat.
The Super Falcons continued to push forward as they searched for an equaliser, but Cameroon’s defensive organisation and the outstanding performance of player-of-the-match Bihina kept Nigeria at bay.
Coach Justine Madugu’s side dominated possession for long periods, but their inability to turn territorial superiority into clear-cut chances proved costly. The introduction of Uchenna Kanu for Rinsola Babajide added another dimension to their attack, yet the Indomitable Lionesses remained resolute.
Nigeria resumed the second half with renewed determination and continued to control proceedings. Yet, their finishing let them down, while Bihina repeatedly produced crucial saves to preserve her country’s advantage.
With time running out, coach Madugu introduced Esther Okonkwo and Asisat Oshoala in an attempt to inject greater urgency into the attack. The changes briefly gave them additional attacking impetus, but their opponents continued to withstand the pressure.
The Lionesses almost doubled their lead in the 84th minute when Njoya stepped up for another free-kick. Her well-struck effort appeared destined for the net, but Nnadozie produced an excellent save to tip the ball behind for a corner.
Nigeria threw everything forward in the closing stages, but Cameroon held firm to secure a historic victory.
The result sees Cameroon reach the WAFCON semi-finals and, more importantly, guarantees them an automatic place for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
They will now face hosts Morocco in the last four, with the dream of winning their first continental title.
For Nigeria, the defeat brings an unexpected end to their WAFCON campaign. They must now turn their attention to their play-in fixture against eternal rivals South Africa on Thursday.
Victory would secure a place in the inter-confederation play-offs, keeping their hopes of reaching the 2027 Women’s World Cup alive.
WAFCON 2026
The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) is taking place from July 26th to August 16th in Morocco, across venues in Rabat and Casablanca. The continent's 16 best sides are competing in groups of four before the knockout stages commence on August 8th.
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