WOMEN’S AFCON FINAL: NIGERIA AND CAMEROON CLASH FOR GLORY IN NAMIBIA
A thrilling showdown is set for tonight in Namibia as Nigeria and Cameroon face off in the 2014 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final. Both teams have already secured their spots at the 2015 Women’s World Cup in Canada, but continental supremacy is still at stake.
Led by veteran striker Perpetua Nkwocha, the Super Falcons of Nigeria are chasing a seventh title in nine editions, reaffirming their dominance in African women’s football. “We have prepared well for the final… We are waiting for them, we will see,” said Nkwocha, signaling Nigeria’s readiness to defend their crown.
Cameroon, however, is looking for revenge. Humiliated 5-0 by Nigeria in the 2004 final, the Indomitable Lionesses are aiming for their first-ever Women’s AFCON title. Their confidence is bolstered by a 1-0 victory over Nigeria in the third-place match of the 2012 edition.
Captain Manie Christine Patience, 30, remains optimistic:
“The final will be very tough, I admit. But between 2012 and 2014, a lot has changed. I think this time we’re starting on an equal footing. Our strength is our team. We’re saying why not all together?”
While both Nigeria and Cameroon prepare for battle, Ivory Coast and South Africa are currently contesting the third-place match, with the winner earning the final African ticket to the 2015 World Cup.
All eyes are on Windhoek tonight as two giants of African women’s football collide for the coveted continental crown.
