Nigeria clinched their seventh title after a 2-0 win over Cameroon in the final of the Africa Women Championship at the Sam Nujoma Stadium in Windhoek on Saturday evening.
Nigeria led 2-0 at half time with goals from Desire Oparanozie and Asisat Oshoala that set the tone for victory in the encounter that lived up to billing as the ultimate game of the TN Mobile 9th African Women Championship.
The fast paced game saw Cameroon having the better of exchanges in the opening minutes with Gaelle Enganamouit firing a shot from a free-kick that went wide.
Two minutes later, Oparanozie taught ‘Les Lionnes’ how to do it, curling home a free-kick that left Annette Ngo Ndom with no chance for the first goal.
Nigeria survived several onslaughts by the Cameroonians and were let off the hook after Enganamouit’s shot kissed the crossbar on 21 minutes with goalkeeper Ibubeleye Whyte completely beaten.
The Super Falcons doubled the lead on 43 minutes through Oshoala. Ordega profited from a poor clearance by Yvonne Leuko, laid on to Oshoala, who connected to ensure a two-goal lead at the break
Cameroon came out stronger and their quest for a goal received a boost with the introduction of Ajara Njoya for Francine Zouga. Later, Ivem Mihamle also came on for Madeleine Ngono Mani who found it difficult to unsettle the Nigerian defence.
On 64 minutes, Super Falcons goalie Whyte made a great diving save to deny Enganamouit by parrying out her effort from a free-kick.
Enganamouit combed every space around the Nigerian defence and was again denied by Whyte on 79 minutes, who palmed out her goal-bound shot from a free-kick from the edge of the penalty area.
‘Les Lionnes’ pressed further but Nigeria held on to claim victory and further extend their record to seven titles (1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2010 and 2014). – cafonline.com
TN Mobile Woman of the Match14. Francisca Ordega (Nigeria)
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
