Ikhana warns Super Falcons to improve before Cameroon clash

Former Super Falcons head coach Kadiri Ikhana has challenged the Nigerian women's national team to improve their standard of play before their upcoming quarter-final against Cameroon at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations. The match is scheduled for Sunday, August 9, at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.

Nigeria currently sits in second place in their group with 6 points from three matches. Cameroon leads the group in first place with 7 points from three matches. The quarter-final fixture carries significant consequences, as the winner will advance to the semi-finals and secure qualification for the FIFA Women's World Cup.

Ikhana noted that the ten-time African champions have not yet delivered the performances required of title contenders. He suggested that Nigeria would struggle to defeat Cameroon unless they significantly raise their level of play. The former coach highlighted that the team has faced difficulties in their group stage matches, including a loss to Malawi that saw them finish behind the group leaders.

Nigeria's recent form includes a 2-1 win over Tanzania, a 0-3 loss to Senegal, a 2-1 win against Senegal, a 3-1 victory over Cameroon, and a 0-1 loss to Cameroon. Cameroon enters the knockout stage following a 3-1 win against Benin, a 1-3 loss to Nigeria, a 1-0 win over Nigeria, a 0-2 loss to Nigeria, and a 1-0 win against Morocco.

Ikhana emphasized the importance of the World Cup qualification on the line, warning the players against the consequences of failing to qualify. He also referenced the 2012 WAFCON, where Cameroon defeated Nigeria in the third-place playoff. While he views Cameroon as the favorites based on their group stage results, he believes the Super Falcons can succeed if they play at their highest level.