Ex-Bayelsa Keeper Backs Cameroon to Upset Super Falcons in International Friendly

Cameroon’s goalkeeper Ange Bawou has voiced optimism ahead of Tuesday’s international friendly against Nigeria, stating that the Indomitable Lionesses are poised to shock the Super Falcons in Abeokuta.

Reflecting on their Olympic qualifying loss to Nigeria earlier this year, Bawou said the Cameroonian side has made notable strides since then and is heading into the friendly with fresh focus and determination. She described the team as one that is “building strongly for the future” and ready to deliver an upset.

“We are working on a great project with the national team,” Bawou said.

“There are many good opportunities ahead of us, and we need to prepare well. Playing against Nigeria gives us a solid platform to test ourselves and improve.”

The 25-year-old, who previously played for Nigerian champions Bayelsa Queens, acknowledged that missing out on recent major tournaments has placed more responsibility on the team to grow.

“Sometimes, when a big team like ours is not participating in major African competitions, we need to come together and work even harder to progress,” she said.

“We cannot afford to remain stagnant. This team has great potential, and the future of the Cameroon women’s national team looks promising.”

Cameroon goalkeeper Ange Bawou has highlighted the recent transition within the Indomitable Lionesses squad, describing the inclusion of younger players as a positive step for the team’s development.

Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s international friendly against Nigeria in Abeokuta, Bawou said the fresh talent brings renewed energy and signals a promising future for the team. She expressed confidence that the blend of youth and experience will help Cameroon challenge the Super Falcons and grow stronger in upcoming competitions.

“Yes, there are many young players now in the team, and we’re going through a period of transition.

“After the Olympic qualifiers where Nigeria defeated us over two legs, this friendly gives us a chance to test our progress. It is not just about revenge, but about growing and improving,” she explained.

Though Nigeria have had the upper hand in recent meetings, including a string of victories since 2012, Bawou is adamant the Lionesses are ready to match the nine-time African champions.

“Cameroon and Nigeria are like sisters. We know each other very well,” she said. “Every time we meet, both teams bring out their best. These matches are always intense because we push each other to the limit. It’s always a battle of who wants it more.”

When pressed for a prediction, the fearless shot-stopper didn’t hesitate to throw her weight behind her team, reflecting the unwavering confidence that pulses through her campa belief that victory is not just possible, but inevitable.

“I wish Nigeria a good campaign at WAFCON, and I hope everyone enjoys the game because football is about enjoyment first, then the results follow.’’

“But yes, I believe Cameroon will win. Our media officer predicted 2–0 in our favour, and I agree with that. Cameroon to win 2–0,” she stated.

Bawou first announced her presence on the continental stage by clinching a silver medal with Cameroon’s U-20 team at the 2019 African Games. That same year, she took her place among the senior national squad, marking the beginning of a promising journey. Since then, she has been a steadfast pillar in Cameroon’s campaigns, guarding the goal during the intense 2020 CAF Olympic qualifiers and later standing firm in the 2023 playoffs for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Her trajectory hints at even greater chapters yet to be written.