The Nigeria women's national football team, known as the Super Falcons, turned the tables on Cameroon's Indomitable Lionesses with a commanding 3-1 win in Yaoundé on March 3, 2026. After conceding early, the defending African champions rallied back with three unanswered goals, avenging a narrow defeat in their previous encounter and signaling strong form ahead of the upcoming Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026.
Match Recap
The friendly match at the Military Stadium in Yaoundé saw Cameroon strike first in the seventh minute, with Kiki Meva finding the net to give the hosts an early lead. Nigeria, however, responded emphatically before halftime.
First-Half Turnaround
In the 32nd minute, forward Chiwendu Ihezuo leveled the score with a well-timed header off a precise cross from Rinsola Babajide. Babajide then doubled the lead in the 43rd minute, capitalizing on a scramble in the box to fire home Nigeria's second goal.
Second-Half Dominance
The Super Falcons maintained control after the break. Michelle Alozie sealed the victory in the 64th minute with a header from captain Rasheedat Ajibade's assist, making it 3-1. Cameroon, fielding a mix of local-based and U20 players, struggled to mount a comeback against Nigeria's experienced lineup.
Key Players and Performances
Rinsola Babajide stood out for Nigeria, contributing a goal and an assist while tormenting Cameroon's defense. Chiwendu Ihezuo and Michelle Alozie also shone with their clinical finishing. For Cameroon, Kiki Meva's early strike highlighted their threat, but defensive lapses proved costly.
Background and Context
The Super Falcons, nine-time WAFCON winners and current title holders, entered the match following a 0-1 loss to Cameroon in the first leg of this double-header friendly series on February 28, 2026. These games served as crucial preparation for WAFCON 2026, set to begin on March 17 in Morocco. Cameroon, a perennial rival, used the fixtures to test a younger squad against top-tier opposition.
Why This News Matters
This victory boosts Nigeria's confidence as they aim to defend their WAFCON crown. It demonstrates the team's depth and ability to recover from setbacks, key traits in tournament football. For Cameroon, the result exposes areas for improvement, particularly in defense, as they build toward the continental showdown.
Possible Impact and Next Steps
The win could solidify starting spots for players like Babajide and Alozie in Nigeria's WAFCON squad. Both teams will now focus on final preparations, with Nigeria potentially scheduling additional friendlies. WAFCON 2026 promises intense competition, and this result sets the stage for a potential rematch in the tournament.
In a display of African women's football at its finest, the Super Falcons' resilience underscores their status as continental powerhouses, priming them for success in Morocco.