World Cup heartbreak for Cameroon as Lionesse bow to Portugal

Cameroon suffered a heartbreaking 1-2 intercontinental Women’s World Cup playoff final loss to Portugal at the Waikato Stadium in Hamilton on Wednesday, February 22.

Gabriel Zabo tutored Indomitable Lioness gave their more fancied Portuguese opponents a good fight but will miss the FIFA Women’s World Cup spot after conceding from a stoppage time spot-kick to lose 1-2.

Cameroon was aiming to reach a third consecutive Women’s World Cup tournament when the FIFA Women’s World Cup gets underway in Australia and New Zealand, from July 20 to August 20, 2023.

Cameroon defeated Thailand 2-0 to reach the Intercontinental playoff final.

In the final game, it was Portugal who controlled proceedings and duly took a first half lead through Gomes.

In the second half, Cameroon came out of the blocks and attacked more. With the introduction of Onguene, Mbeleck and Abam, Cameroon piled pressure on the Portuguese.

The Lionesse had the ball in the net via Abam’s fine finish but it was ruled out for offside.

Cameroon will finally get the equalizer with a minute of regular time left. Ajara magically turned to fire home the equalizer in the 89th minute.

With scores level at 1-1 and the clock ticking away, Portugal mounted a dangerous attack, leading to a shot that caught the elbow of Estelle Johnson.

After a VAR check, the Portuguese were awarded a penalty.

Carole Costa stepped up to convert from 18-yards to seal a 1-2 victory for Portugal who have qualified for their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup.

A heartbreaking end for the Indomitable Lioness of Cameroon.