Nigeria’s Super Falcons have secured their record tenth Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title by defeating hosts Morocco 3-2 in the final played on Saturday at the Stade Moulay Abdellah, Rabat.
The match saw Nigeria battle back after trailing 2-0 at halftime. Morocco took an early lead with captain Ghizlane Chebbak scoring in the 13th minute, followed by a second goal from Sanaa Mssoudy ten minutes later. The first half was dominated by the home side, who appeared firmly in control.
After the break, the Super Falcons returned determined. In the 64th minute, Esther Okoronkwo converted a penalty awarded for a Moroccan handball, bringing Nigeria back into the game. This was followed by Folashade Ijamilusi’s equaliser in the 71st minute. Jennifer Echegini then sealed the win with a late strike in the 88th minute, sending Nigerian fans into wild celebration.
President Tinubu Hails Super Falcons
President Bola Tinubu expressed his delight at the Super Falcons’ outstanding achievement in a post-match video call with team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, the players, and Nigerian officials.
“I am very, very proud of you. The entire nation is proud of you. You have lifted our spirits. You are a pride to your generation and we are all very happy,” the President said.
He commended the entire team, coaching staff, and officials, and extended special praise to Ajibade, who emerged as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, and to Okoronkwo for her “very courageous” penalty which sparked the comeback.
“Safe journey home, enjoy yourselves, avoid injuries, God bless you,” he added, to chants of “Thank you, Mr President!” from the jubilant players and officials.
Ajibade thanked him for ensuring the full payment of players’ allowances and promised the team would present the trophy to him in Abuja.
The conversation ended with a rousing rendition of the national anthem and three hearty “Gbosa!” cheers for the President.
With this victory, Nigeria now possess ten WAFCON titles.
Their triumph also came with a doubled prize purse of US$1 million.
Several individual accolades followed the final: Chiamaka Nnadozie received the best goalkeeper award, Ajibade won three woman of the match awards and was named most valuable player, and Coach Justin Madugu was named coach of the tournament.
The Super Falcons team is expected to arrive in Abuja in the coming days, where a grand reception awaits them.
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