WAFCON 2026: Cameroon ends Nigeria’s title defence, seals World Cup ticket

Cameroon has ended Nigeria's reign as African champions, securing a dramatic 1-0 victory in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Casablanca. The Indomitable Lionesses' win not only propels them into the semi-finals but also guarantees them a coveted spot in the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil. The match saw a resilient Cameroonian performance that frustrated the defending champions, Nigeria, throughout the contest. Nigeria, the most successful team in WAFCON history and a dominant force in previous encounters with Cameroon, was unable to break down the disciplined Lionesses. Cameroon took the lead in the 19th minute when 20-year-old Myriam Wamen unleashed a powerful long-range shot that found the top corner, beyond the reach of Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. Despite Nigeria's immediate attempts to equalize, including efforts from captain Rasheedat Ajibade and Gift Monday, they could not find the net. Cameroon's goalkeeper Michaely Binha was in inspired form, making crucial saves, including a notable stop in the 70th minute from Ochenna Kanu's header. The Lionesses maintained their defensive organization, going into halftime with their narrow lead intact and successfully preserving it through the second half. The victory marks a significant achievement for Cameroon, as it is only their second win over the Super Falcons at the tournament. It also ensures that a new African champion will be crowned in Morocco. For Nigeria, the defeat means they will not defend the WAFCON title they won in the previous edition, and they will miss out on the World Cup.