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By JOE APU
Reigning African champions Nigeria will look to bounce back on Tuesday when they face Cameroon’s Indomitable Lionesses in the second of their two-match international friendly series in Yaounde.
The Super Falcons suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat in Saturday’s first encounter at the Military Stadium, conceding deep into added time in what observers have described as a timely wake-up call ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) finals.
The double-header was arranged by the Nigeria Football Federation and the Cameroon Football Federation as part of preparations for this year’s continental showpiece in Morocco.
Cameroon, drawn in Group D alongside Ghana, Mali and Cape Verde, snatched victory in dramatic fashion when Yvana Mbomezomo unleashed a long-range strike from outside the box in stoppage time. Her effort beat debutant goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor for the only goal of the game.
Despite the heartbreaking finish, Erhabor impressed on her first appearance for Nigeria, displaying composure and confidence between the posts for much of the contest.
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Head Coach Justin Madugu introduced several second-half substitutes — Joy Omewa, Precious Christopher, Folashade Ijamilusi, Esther Onyenezide and Michelle Alozie — in a bid to tilt the momentum Nigeria’s way. However, Cameroon goalkeeper Ange Bawou delivered a commanding performance, denying the Falcons with a series of crucial saves.
Madugu is expected to reshuffle his squad and tweak his tactical approach for Tuesday’s rematch, as Nigeria aim to avoid back-to-back defeats. The Falcons will draw confidence from their 1-0 victory over Cameroon in the final of the 2016 Women AFCON, achieved in front of the Lionesses’ home supporters.
Two-time African Goalkeeper of the Year Chiamaka Nnadozie could be drafted into the starting lineup, while Alozie may earn a place in defence alongside Oluwatosin Demehin, Osinachi Ohale and Glory Ogbonna.
In midfield, Onyenezide, Christopher, Ucheibe, Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene and Jennifer Echegini remain available for selection, offering a blend of creativity and steel.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Gift Monday, Rinsola Babajide, Chinwendu Ihezuo and Ijamilusi provide attacking options as the nine-time champions seek a strong response.
Tuesday’s encounter at the Military Stadium is expected to provide another stern test for both sides as they fine-tune strategies ahead of WAFCON, with Nigeria determined to reassert their continental authority.
