U17 Women’s World Cup 2025: Cameroon bow out after late free-kick heartbreak against Mexico

Angu Lesley Ngwa Akonwi
Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon

Cameroon’s journey at the 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup ended in heartbreak on Friday evening, as they fell 0-1 to Mexico in their final Group B match at the Mohammed VI Stadium (Pitch 2) in Rabat.

A long-range free-kick from Citlalli Reyes in the 87th minute, which slipped past Cameroon goalkeeper Aponfack Princesse, proved decisive — a late blow that punished the Baby Lionesses after a disciplined display.

Brave display marred by a late lapse

Under the guidance of coach Ndoumou Mike, Cameroon approached the match with composure and defensive organisation, showing clear improvement from their previous games.
Led by captain Tiwa Lys, the side frustrated Mexico for much of the contest and looked on course to secure their first point of the tournament.

However, the late free-kick goal handed Mexico the win, leaving Cameroon with three defeats from three Group B matches.

Tough group, tough lessons

Cameroon’s campaign began with a 3-4 defeat to Netherlands, followed by a 1-2 loss to the North Korea they led, before the narrow 0-1 defeat to Mexico sealed their exit. The team scored no goals throughout the tournament.

Despite the results, the Baby Lionesses displayed courage, determination, and growth in each game — valuable experience for a squad featuring many first-time internationals.

Cameroon finishes bottom of Group B with zero points, but the experience gained in Morocco will be crucial as FECAFOOT continues to invest in youth and women’s football development. Africa’s remaining hopes in the tournament now rest on Nigeria and Morocco, who both remain in contention for the one of the best third placed teams that will make the knockout stage.

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