In a thrilling final, Nigeria’s Super Falcons defeated Morocco 3-2 thanks to an incredible second half performance, earning the record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) championship at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.
Morocco took the lead early in the game thanks to a fantastic curling goal from captain Ghizlane Chebbak in the thirteenth minute. The hosts led 2-0 at the break thanks to a second goal by Sanaa Mssoudy in the 24th minute, who took advantage of a defensive mistake.
Nigeria’s chances of winning the title appeared to be dwindling as more than 21,000 supporters cheered for the Atlas Lionesses.
However, in the second half, the Super Falcons emerged changed. After a handball in the box, Esther Okoronkwo converted a penalty in the 64th minute to start the comeback. The Moroccan audience was silenced as she helped Folashade Ijamilusi tie the score at two in the 71st minute.
Okoronkwo once again showing decisiveness in the closing seconds, sent in a precise cross that replacement Jennifer Echegini buried to seal the victory. Nigeria stayed tight to complete the thrilling victory after a tense VAR review denied Morocco a late penalty.
With outstanding performances from Okoronkwo, who was named Player of the Match, Rasheedat Ajibade, Chiamaka Nnadozie, and the tenacious backline led by Michelle Alozie and Ashleigh Plumptre, coach Justin Madugu’s tactical adjustments paid off.
Nigeria’s victory rounds out their “Mission X” campaign, demonstrating their supremacy in the league with ten WAFCON championships from ten finals. With a prize of about $1 million and a stronger legacy than before, the team returns home as continental queens.
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