Cameroon vs Nigeria Women WAFCON Preview
A thrilling contest is expected when Cameroon and Nigeria square off in the quarter-finals of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations.
Given the deep rivalry between both countries, a closely fought encounter could be on the cards, and both teams are likely to score here.
Key Stats
- Cameroon have scored in eight of their last 10 matches in all competitions.
- Cameroon have conceded in seven of their last nine matches in all competitions.
- Nigeria have scored in nine of their last 10 matches in all competitions.
- Nigeria have conceded in seven of their last nine matches in all competitions.
A Historic Rivalry
There have been 18 previous matches between both teams, with Nigeria claiming 10 wins and four draws while Cameroon have been victorious four times.
Both teams met in two friendlies this year, with the Indomitable Lionesses earning a 1-0 victory in the first clash before the Super Falcons triumphed 3-1 in the second fixture.
Solid Campaign for Cameroon
Cameroon wrapped up their group stage campaign with a 1-1 draw with Malawi. They struck the opener in the first half through Grace Mendoua but were pegged back five minutes after the restart.
That result maintained Cameroon's unbeaten record in the competition, having won their opening two fixtures. Valentine Nguele's team qualified for the quarter-finals as Group D winners.
Cameroon have shown plenty of attacking quality lately, scoring in eight of their last 10 matches in all competitions. However, the Indomitable Lionesses are often exposed at the back and are without a clean sheet in seven of the last nine fixtures in this run.
Super Falcons Still Unconvincing
Nigeria secured a place in the quarter-finals after claiming a 6-2 victory over Egypt in their final group stage fixture. Asisat Oshoala, Gift Monday, Uchenna Kanu and Rasheedat Ajibade were all among the goals.
It has not been a particularly smooth title defence for Nigeria, who appear to be scraping through and were beaten 3-2 by debutants Malawi in their opening fixture. However, the 10-time champions have vast experience at this level and will be hoping to find their rhythm in the knockout stage.
As evidenced by the win over Egypt, Nigeria have no problems in attack and have scored in nine of their last 10 matches in all competitions. However, Justin Madugu's team have been a bit shaky at the back and are without a clean sheet in seven of the last nine fixtures in this run.
Team News and Predicted Line-ups
Cameroon (4-4-2): Michaely Bihina; Ivana Yakana, Myriam Nyadjou, Collete Ndzana, Easther Mayi Kith; Achta Toko, Genevieve Ngo Mbeleck, Monique Ngock, Naomi Ndjoah Eto; Marie Ngah, Grace Mendoua.
Having rested players for their final group fixture, Cameroon are likely to restore the main team in this one. Goalkeeper Bihina should return between the sticks while Ngah is set to partner Mendoua in attack once again.
Nigeria (4-3-3): Chiamaka Nnadozie; Michelle Alozie, Oluwatosin Demehin, Osinachi Ohale, Shukurat Oladipo; Deborah Abiodun, Rasheedat Ajibade, Jennifer Echeghini; Folashade Ijamilusi, Rinsola Babajide, Asisat Oshoala.
Defender Demehin and midfielder Echeghini are set to return to the team after serving suspensions in Nigeria’s last group stage fixture. Babajide impressed last time out and should retain her place in attack while Oshoala is expected to lead the line once again.