Nigeria's Super Falcons are set to face rivals Cameroon in a high-profile international friendly as preparations finally begin in earnest for the delayed 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), now scheduled to kick off in Morocco on 5 July 2025, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 11-time African champions are aiming to reclaim the title from current holders South Africa, but have endured a less-than-ideal buildup, having not played a match in over six months.
Their last outing was a 2-1 defeat to France in December 2023, with Ifeoma Onumonu scoring Nigeria’s only goal in Angers.
In contrast, South Africa — one of Nigeria’s fiercest rivals — have been busy fine-tuning their squad. Banyana Banyana have played five matches since December, including double victories each over Lesotho and Malawi, making no secret of their intent to defend their continental crown.
Nigeria vs Cameroon: Super Falcons line up Lionesses clash as WAFCON preparations finally begin – report
However, that silence from the Nigerian camp appears to be over.
A friendly against Cameroon is now in the pipeline, reportedly set for the next FIFA international window, according to journalist Sam Ahmadu.
DID YOU KNOW?
— The Super Falcons Show (@Superfalconshow) April 14, 2025
At just 18 years and 363 days, Patience Avre became the youngest Nigerian to score at the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Striking in the Super Falcons’ thrilling 3-3 clash with Canada in 1995!
A moment for the history books!#TheMTNSuperFalconsShow #ThisIsNaija pic.twitter.com/5wvvVNB0CQ
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While the date and venue are yet to be confirmed, the match would provide a significant opportunity for head coach Justin Madugu to assess both domestic and foreign-based talents in a competitive setting.
Interestingly, Cameroon failed to qualify for the 2025 WAFCON, but remain a formidable side in African women’s football and will pose a solid test for the Falcons.
Nigeria will compete in Group B of the 12-nation tournament, alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana.
The group appears favourable on paper, with Algeria yet to progress beyond the group stage in their five previous appearances, while Botswana and Tunisia reached the quarterfinals in 2022.
Elsewhere, Group A features hosts Morocco, Zambia, Senegal, and DR Congo, while defending champions South Africa have been drawn in a tough Group C with Ghana, Mali, and Tanzania.
The Super Falcons remain Africa’s top-ranked team and the most successful side in the competition’s history. However, with just two months to go before the tournament begins, the upcoming friendly could prove crucial in kick-starting their title charge.
