Cameroon’s Indomitable Lionesses struck at the death to hand Nigeria’s Super Falcons a 1–0 defeat in the first of their two scheduled international friendly matches in Yaounde on Saturday.
A late goal from Mbomezomo Yvana in the 90th minute separated both sides in the tightly contested encounter that left the ten-time African champions stunned just as the game appeared headed for a draw.
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The match formed part of preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, with both teams using the fixture to fine-tune tactics and assess squad depth ahead of the continental showpiece.
Head Coach Justine Madugu handed a debut to England-based goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor, who started between the posts. Erhabor lined up behind a defensive unit that included Glory Ogbonna, Oluwatosin Demehin, Sikiratu Isah and Shukurat Oladipo. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade led the side, supported by midfielders Christy Ucheibe, Jennifer Echegini and returning playmaker Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene. Rinsola Babajide and Gift Monday provided attacking options.
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Despite periods of control and flashes of attacking intent, the Super Falcons struggled to convert possession into clear-cut chances. Cameroon, physical and disciplined, remained compact and dangerous on the break.
Erhabor impressed on her debut with several confident interventions, but she was left with little chance in the closing moments when Mbomezomo Yvana capitalised on a defensive lapse to fire home the winner.
The defeat will offer Madugu valuable lessons as he continues to shape his 25-player squad for WAFCON. The roster includes established stars such as Chiamaka Nnadozie, Esther Okoronkwo and Chinwendu Ihezuo, alongside returning defender Chidinma Okeke and several Europe-based professionals.
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Nigeria, who are drawn in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and Malawi, will hope to respond strongly in the second friendly on Tuesday.
While the double-header is designed as part of the countdown to WAFCON in Morocco from 17 March to 3 April, reports emerging from within African football circles suggest the tournament could face a possible postponement, although no official confirmation has been issued by the Confederation of African Football.
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