The Super Falcons of Nigeria are set to face familiar rivals, the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon, in two international friendlies as part of their preparations for the 2024 WAFCON, www.aclsports.com reports.
The fixtures are scheduled for this Saturday at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne and next Tuesday at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta.
Despite the non-competitive nature of the matches, interim Head Coach Justine Madugu emphasizes the importance of approaching them with full commitment.
“These games are crucial for evaluating our players and strengthening our tactical approach,” Madugu said. “We’re not treating this lightly. The mindset is to win and build the right mentality heading into the tournament in Morocco.”
Nigeria and Cameroon share one of the fiercest rivalries in African women’s football. Most recently, the Super Falcons edged the Lionesses 1–0 on aggregate to progress to the final qualifying round for the 2024 Olympic Games, securing Nigeria’s first appearance at the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament in 16 years.
Their rivalry has deep roots, including the 2016 WAFCON final in Yaoundé, where Desire Oparanozie’s late winner clinched Nigeria’s eighth continental title in front of a home Cameroonian crowd.
Madugu’s 23-player squad here is a blend of seasoned internationals and standout talents from the domestic league. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade leads a roster that includes key players such as goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defender Osinachi Ohale, midfielder Christy Ucheibe, forwards Toni Payne, Rinsola Babajide and Francisca Ordega.
“These games are about more than results,” Madugu added. “It’s about team chemistry, mental toughness, and sticking to our game plan. Our mindset must reflect the ambition of a team chasing glory in Morocco.”
At the 2024 WAFCON in Morocco, Nigeria will compete in Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana.
