Tough Draw for African Teams at the 2015 Women’s World Cup
The draw for the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup, set to take place in Canada from June 6 to July 5, has placed African representatives Nigeria, Cameroon, and Ivory Coast in challenging groups, pitting them against some of the tournament’s strongest contenders.
🇨🇮 Ivory Coast (Group B) – First-Time Finalists
Drawn into a group with Germany (2-time world champions), Norway (1995 champions), and Thailand, the Elephants face a steep learning curve in what will be their first-ever appearance at a World Cup finals. Gaining experience and exposure will be key for the debutants.
🇳🇬 Nigeria (Group D) – African Powerhouse Faces Giants
The reigning African champions are grouped with USA (3-time winners), Australia, and Sweden—a formidable trio. While Nigeria is the most experienced African side at the tournament, Group D is arguably one of the toughest. Nigeria will rely on its pace and attacking flair to stand a chance.
🇨🇲 Cameroon (Group C) – Underdogs with Spirit
After losing to Nigeria in the 2014 CAN final, Cameroon makes its second World Cup appearance. They will face defending champions Japan, European heavyweights Switzerland, and Ecuador.
Coach Enoh Ngatchu remains hopeful:
“It will be difficult… but with good preparation, it’s 50/50. Japan and Switzerland are favorites, but we have our chances.”
🔎 Full Group Stage Draw:
Group A
🇨🇦 Canada – 🇨🇳 China – 🇳🇿 New Zealand – 🇳🇱 Netherlands
Group B
🇩🇪 Germany – 🇨🇮 Ivory Coast – 🇳🇴 Norway – 🇹🇭 Thailand
Group C
🇯🇵 Japan – 🇨🇭 Switzerland – 🇨🇲 Cameroon – 🇪🇨 Ecuador
Group D
🇺🇸 USA – 🇦🇺 Australia – 🇸🇪 Sweden – 🇳🇬 Nigeria
Group E
🇧🇷 Brazil – 🇰🇷 South Korea – 🇪🇸 Spain – 🇨🇷 Costa Rica
Group F
🇫🇷 France – 🏴 England – 🇨🇴 Colombia – 🇲🇽 Mexico
The 52 matches will unfold across six Canadian cities: Ottawa, Moncton, Montreal, Winnipeg, Edmonton, and Vancouver. African fans will be hoping their teams can defy the odds and make history on the world stage.
