Super-Falcons of Nigeria celebrating their WAFCON title
In a breathtaking second-half turnaround, Nigeria’s Super Falcons overcame a two-goal deficit to defeat host nation Morocco 3-2, securing their 10th TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title at the Stade Olympique in Rabat on Saturday night.
Morocco ignited their home crowd early, with captain Ghizlane Chebbak scoring a stunning long-range goal in the 12th minute, curling the ball beyond Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.
The Atlas Lionesses doubled their lead in the 24th minute when Sanaâ Mssoudy latched onto a precise pass from Ibtissam Jraidi, slotting a composed finish into the bottom corner. The Super Falcons headed into halftime trailing 2-0, seemingly outmatched.
The comeback ignited after the break when a VAR review awarded Nigeria a penalty in the 62nd minute due to a handball by Morocco’s Nouhaila Benzina. Esther Okoronkwo confidently converted the penalty, reducing the score to 2-1 and sparking a shift in momentum.
In the 71st minute, Okoronkwo turned playmaker, delivering a pinpoint pass to Folashade Ijamulusi, who fired a low left-footed shot to level the score at 2-2.
As the match neared extra time, Nigeria struck the decisive blow in the 88th minute. Okoronkwo’s clever set-piece assist found Joe Echegini, who calmly slotted home to complete the comeback.
Despite intense late pressure from Morocco, the Super Falcons held firm through stoppage time to claim their 10th WAFCON title in 13 editions, having previously defeated defending champions South Africa 2-1 in the semi-finals.
Chiamaka Nnadozie was honored as Goalkeeper of the Tournament, while captain Rasheedat Ajibade was named Player of the Tournament for their standout performances throughout the competition.
