The Super Falcons lost 1–0 to the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon in their first pre‑Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) friendly. The match took place on Saturday at the Military Stadium in Yaounde.
Mbomezomo Yvana scored in stoppage time to give Cameroon the win. The goal was the only one in a tightly fought game that both teams used as a warm‑up for the 2026 WAFCON in Morocco.
Head coach Justine Madugu picked a mix of new and experienced players. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade led the side, while Gift Monday played up front.
Comfort Erhabor made her debut in goal, and Ngozi Okobi returned to the starting eleven after three years away.
Nigeria began strongly and pressed Cameroon’s defence hard in the first half. Yet the Falcons could not turn their control into a goal, and the Lionesses stayed firm.
Nigeria kept pushing after halftime. Madugu brought on Folashade Ijamilusi and Precious Christopher for Okobi and Rinsola Babajide, with Christopher playing her first international match. Still, the Super Falcons could not break through.
In stoppage time, Yvana struck to hand Cameroon a 1–0 victory. The loss will give Madugu key lessons before the second friendly against Cameroon on Tuesday, 3 March.
Nigeria will defend their WAFCON title in Group C with Zambia, Egypt, and Malawi.
Their first match is on 18 March in Casablanca, with all four semi‑finalists qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
