Nigeria's Super Falcons, the reigning African champions, experienced a narrow 1-0 defeat against Cameroon at the Military Stadium in Yaoundé. This match marked the first of two international friendly encounters arranged as part of the Super Falcons' preparations for the upcoming 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Nigeria is set to defend their continental title, while Cameroon is preparing for their return to the competition after missing the 2024 edition.

Head coach Justine Madugu fielded an experimental starting lineup, blending experienced players with several new faces. Comfort Erhabor, the Portsmouth goalkeeper, made her senior international debut, supported by a defensive quartet comprising Galatasaray's Tosin Demehin, Shukurat Oladipo, Sikiratu Isah, and Glory Ogbonna. The midfield saw the return of veteran Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene, joined by Christy Ucheibe, captain Rasheedat Ajibade, and Paris Saint-Germain star Jennifer Echegini. Upfront, Rinsola Babajide partnered with Gift Monday, as Nigeria aimed to assert early dominance.

Despite controlling significant portions of the match, the Super Falcons struggled to convert their numerous opportunities into goals. Poor finishing, hurried decisions in the final third, and disciplined defending from Cameroon kept the scoreline goalless until halftime. The Falcons intensified their efforts after the break, with Folashade Ijamilusi and debutant Precious Christopher introduced midway through the second half in a bid to find a breakthrough. However, sustained pressure did not yield the desired cutting edge needed to breach the hosts' organized defense.

Cameroon remained resolute and patiently awaited their chance, which arrived dramatically deep into stoppage time. The Indomitable Lionesses secured a late winner, marking only their fourth victory in 14 meetings against Nigeria, and their first triumph over the Super Falcons since 2015. This defeat also brought an end to Nigeria’s impressive near four-year unbeaten run against African opposition, with their last loss to an African rival being a 1-0 defeat to Zambia in the third-place match at the 2022 WAFCON. Coach Madugu’s side will now regroup for the second leg of the friendly series, scheduled for Tuesday, March 3.

The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations will be hosted once again by Morocco, running from March 17 to April 3. Nigeria lifted the trophy in the most recent edition held in Morocco, while South Africa claimed the title in the tournament prior, setting the stage for another fiercely contested continental battle.