By IJEOMA OKIGBO

Nigeria’s Super Falcons on Sunday crashed out of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after a 1-0 quarter-final defeat to Cameroon in Casablanca, Morocco.

The result at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium ended Nigeria’s hopes of defending their continental crown and securing automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Cameroon seized the initiative in the 20th minute when Myriam Nyadjou found the net, giving the Indomitable Lionesses a lead they protected until full time.

The Super Falcons responded with sustained attacking pressure and created several opportunities in search of an equaliser.

However, Cameroon’s defence remained organised and resilient throughout the encounter, frustrating the Nigerian forwards and limiting clear-cut chances.

Goalkeeper Michaely Bihina played a decisive role in the victory, producing crucial saves to deny the 10-time African champions.

Nigeria continued to press forward in the closing stages, but their efforts failed to yield a breakthrough against the disciplined Cameroonian side.

The victory secured Cameroon’s place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil and kept alive their quest for continental glory.

For Nigeria, the defeat means qualification hopes now depend on navigating the playoff route to reach the global tournament.

Cameroon joins Algeria and Morocco among the African teams that have already secured automatic qualification for the World Cup.

The continent’s remaining automatic ticket will be decided by the winner of the quarter-final clash between Ghana and Malawi.

Africa has six places at the expanded global tournament, with two additional teams set to qualify through playoff opportunities. (NAN)

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