By Angu Lesley
Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon
Cameroon have knocked defending champions Nigeria out of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after a memorable 1-0 quarter-final victory in Casablanca.
Myriam Maéva Nyadjou scored the only goal of a fiercely contested encounter, while goalkeeper Michaely Bihina produced a commanding performance as the Indomitable Lionesses resisted sustained Nigerian pressure to reach the semi-finals.
The victory sends Cameroon into the last four and, more importantly, guarantees the Lionesses a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Nyadjou provided the moment of brilliance in the 19th minute. The young midfielder stepped up for a free-kick and produced a stunning strike that flew into the top corner, leaving Nigeria goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie with no chance. It was a goal that changed the complexion of the contest and gave Cameroon something precious to defend against one of Africa’s most experienced women’s teams.
Nigeria responded immediately and began to dominate possession as they searched for an equaliser. The Super Falcons created openings, but Cameroon’s defensive organisation remained impressive. When Nigeria did find a way through, Bihina was there.
The Cameroonian goalkeeper became increasingly important as the match progressed, making several crucial interventions to preserve the lead. Nigeria’s pressure intensified after half-time as the defending champions pushed higher and committed more players forward, but Cameroon refused to break.
Bihina produced one of the game’s most important saves when she denied a dangerous Nigerian effort, keeping the Lionesses ahead as the pressure mounted. Cameroon also threatened on the counter and came close to doubling their advantage late in the game when a dangerous free-kick from Achta Toko Njoya forced Nnadozie into action.
The final stages became a battle of nerves. Nigeria threw everything forward, knowing that an equaliser would take the game into extra time, while Cameroon defended with remarkable determination. Every clearance and intervention became crucial as the Lionesses fought to protect their slender advantage.
When the final whistle finally arrived, the Lionesses erupted in celebration. Cameroon had achieved what few expected before kick-off: they had eliminated the defending African champions.
For Nigeria, the defeat brings their WAFCON title defence to an abrupt end. The Super Falcons had entered the tournament among the favourites and were seeking to retain the continental crown, but Cameroon proved too resilient on the night.
For Cameroon, the victory represents another historic step towards a potential continental crown. It also guarantees that the 2026 WAFCON will produce a new champion, with Nigeria’s reign officially over.
Beyond the semi-final qualification, the victory carries even greater significance for Cameroon. The Lionesses have secured their place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, marking their return to the global stage after missing the 2023 tournament.
Nyadjou supplied the magic, Bihina provided the heroics and the Lionesses delivered the resilience required to overcome one of Africa’s most formidable teams.
Nigeria are out. Cameroon are through. And the Indomitable Lionesses are heading to Brazil.
French 
English