Nnadozie: Super Falcons Gave Everything But Cameroon Defeat Ends WAFCON Dream

By Dorcas Francis Koji

Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie says Nigeria gave everything in their 1-0 defeat to Cameroon but were unable to find a way past the Indomitable Lionesses in their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final clash in Casablanca on Sunday.

The defeat ended Nigeria’s hopes of winning a record-extending 11th WAFCON title and also marked the first time the Super Falcons have suffered a quarter-final defeat in the history of the competition.

Cameroon struck the decisive blow in the 19th minute when Maéva Nyadjou produced a stunning free-kick that flew into the top corner, leaving Nnadozie with little chance.

Nigeria responded by pushing forward in search of an equaliser, particularly after the interval, but Cameroon goalkeeper Michaely Bihina stood firm and produced a series of crucial saves to preserve her side’s advantage.

The Super Falcons came close to forcing a late turnaround, but substitute Esther Okoronkwo missed a promising opportunity in stoppage time as Cameroon held on to secure a famous victory and a place in the semi-finals.

Nnadozie admitted the result was difficult to accept but insisted the team must quickly regroup, with Nigeria still having a route to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup through the inter-confederation play-offs.

“It was a very difficult game. We played our hearts out, we gave everything, but it wasn’t enough to get the victory today. We missed a lot of chances,” Nnadozie said after the match.

The Paris FC goalkeeper acknowledged the disappointment within the squad but said the players were determined to learn from the setback.

“Everyone is not happy with the performance. We’ve spoken to ourselves and I believe that we will go back to the drawing board. We’re trying to get it right,” she added.

Nnadozie also praised coach Justine Madugu for encouraging the players despite the painful elimination.

“The coach has been cheering us up, telling us well done. We really appreciate that from him,” she said.

With their WAFCON title defence over, Nigeria will now turn their attention to Thursday’s crucial encounter against South Africa.

The Super Falcons must overcome Banyana Banyana to keep their hopes of reaching the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup alive, with the winner advancing to the inter-confederation play-offs.

“This is football, it happens. So, Thursday, let’s keep hope and we’ll go there and make the most of it,” Nnadozie said.

Nigeria’s immediate challenge is now to recover mentally and physically from the Cameroon defeat and secure another opportunity to remain in contention for a place at next year’s global showpiece in Brazil.