In a night destined for the history books, the Super Falcons of Nigeria completed one of the most thrilling comebacks in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) history.
They overturned a two-goal deficit to defeat hosts Morocco 3–2 and clinch their record 10th title at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, on Saturday, 26th July, 2025.
Trailing 2–0 at halftime, Nigeria looked set for heartbreak in front of a roaring Moroccan crowd in Rabat. But the Falcons, known for their resilience and championship DNA, refused to fall.
The Atlas Lionesses drew first blood when captain Ghizlane Chebbak opened the scoring in the 13th minute. Momentum stayed with the hosts, and Sanaâ Mssoudy doubled their lead with a composed strike 12 minutes later.
Nigeria went into the break shell-shocked, with their 10th title hopes fading.
But champions don’t go quietly.
In the 64th minute, Esther Okoronkwo coolly slotted home a penalty to ignite the comeback, 2–1. Suddenly, the tide turned.
Nigeria pressed harder, and in the 71st minute, Folashade Ijamilusi bundled in the equalizer after a scramble in the box, making it 2–2.
Then came the moment of destiny.
With two minutes left on the clock, midfielder Jennifer Echegini found space at the edge of the area and rifled home the winner. From despair to delirium, 3–2 Nigeria.
The final whistle sparked wild celebrations. Nigeria had not only silenced the home crowd but etched their name in African football folklore yet again.
This year’s final was also historic for another reason, CAF unveiled a brand new trophy for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, symbolizing a new era in African women’s football. By lifting the new silverware, the Super Falcons became the first team ever to win it.
In addition to the glory, Nigeria took home a $1,000,000 cash prize as champions, a significant increase from previous editions, reflecting CAF’s commitment to elevating the women’s game.
With this win, the Super Falcons extend their continental dominance with a 10th WAFCON title, reaffirming their place at the summit of African women’s football. Despite the rise of challengers like Morocco and South Africa, Nigeria’s pedigree and spirit proved unmatched.
As the curtain falls on WAFCON 2024, one truth remains: when the stakes are highest, the Super Falcons soar the highest.
–
Story by Erica Odeenyin Odoom|univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Pius Asack
