Cameroon withstand Nigeria pressure to book Women’s AFCON semi-final with Morocco

Cameroon reached the semi-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after defeating defending champions Nigeria 1-0 in a tense quarter-final, with Myriam Nyadjou’s first-half free-kick proving decisive.

Nyadjou broke the deadlock in the 20th minute with a direct free-kick from just outside the Nigeria penalty area. Her strike gave Cameroon the lead in an intense contest and placed the Indomitable Lionesses in control of the tie on the scoreboard.

The goal did not alter Nigeria’s approach. The defending champions dictated the pace for much of an eventful first half, maintaining the pressure despite falling behind. Cameroon were forced to withstand long spells of Nigerian dominance as the quarter-final developed into a highly competitive encounter.

Nigeria entered the second half needing to find a response. With their hopes of retaining the title and reaching the Women’s World Cup at stake, the champions attempted to prevent an unexpected exit at the quarter-final stage.

Cameroon, however, remained organised and disciplined in defence. They protected their narrow advantage throughout the remainder of the match, denying Nigeria the equaliser required to keep the tie alive.

The final whistle confirmed Cameroon’s place in the last four and secured their direct qualification for the Women’s World Cup. Nyadjou’s goal ultimately separated the sides after Nigeria’s sustained attempts to recover from the early setback.

The result sends Cameroon into a semi-final against Morocco. The Indomitable Lionesses will face the Atlas Lions on 12 August, with a place in the final at stake.

For Nigeria, the defeat ends their campaign at the quarter-final stage and brings their defence of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title to a premature conclusion. They were unable to turn their control of the first half and their second-period efforts into a goal.

Cameroon’s progress has instead been built on a decisive moment from Nyadjou and a resilient defensive performance. The single-goal victory was enough to carry them through a difficult knockout match and into the semi-finals, while also confirming their place at the Women’s World Cup.