Super Falcons forward Rinsola Babajide says Nigeria are fully prepared for their crucial 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final against Cameroon, with qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup also at stake.
Nigeria will face the Indomitable Lionesses at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca at 6pm on Sunday, with victory securing a place in the semi-finals and an automatic World Cup ticket.
The defending champions recovered from a difficult start to finish second in Group C, while Cameroon topped Group D unbeaten to set up a demanding quarter-final for Justine Madugu’s side.
Babajide believes Nigeria’s preparations have put them in a strong position to deal with the challenge and said the players understand the importance of the encounter.
“We are very excited to face Cameroon. We have played against them a couple of times before; we know their strengths, we are prepared, and ready to face them,” Babajide told the Super Falcons Show.
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The forward described the fixture as the biggest game of her career because of the opportunity to qualify for the World Cup.
“I would say it is the biggest game of my career because the World Cup is the biggest thing, and everyone wants to play at the World Cup,” she said.
“We know why we are here; we need to get the ticket to the World Cup. We are focused and ready for the task ahead. The goal remains the same. Whether it is defending our title or qualifying for the World Cup, we want to win and make Nigeria proud.”
Nigeria are seeking a record-extending 11th WAFCON title but must overcome Cameroon to keep their title defence alive.
Babajide and her teammates will therefore have more than the continental crown on their minds when they take to the pitch, with a victory also guaranteeing Nigeria’s place at the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Peter, who has been covering sports for PUNCH for close to two years, focuses on combat sports reporting, special features and human angle stories
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Source: The Punch
