The Super Falcons of Nigeria have claimed their 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in spectacular fashion after pulling off a dramatic 3-2 comeback win over hosts Morocco in Saturday’s grand final.
The victory marks a historic moment for Nigerian football and signals the return of the Falcons to the pinnacle of African women’s football following their semi-final heartbreak in 2024.
Justin Madugu’s side came into the final determined to avenge their previous loss to the Atlas Lionesses and although Morocco struck early, Nigeria refused to back down.
The home crowd erupted in the 13th minute when the tournament’s top scorer, Ghizlane Chebbak, capitalized on a loose ball and fired past goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie to give Morocco the lead.
Nigeria attempted to respond quickly, with Ijamilusi Folashade testing the keeper, but her tame effort was comfortably gathered by Khadija Er-Rmichi.
Morocco doubled their lead in the 28th minute after Fatima Tagnaout slipped the ball to Mssoudy, who drilled a low shot from the left edge of the box into the far corner. The Falcons were down 2-0 at the break, and the momentum heavily favoured the hosts.
Falcons Launch a Fierce Second-Half Comeback
The second half saw a transformed Nigerian side take the pitch. Their pressing intensified, and the midfield gained control. The breakthrough came in the 63rd minute when Ijamilusi’s cutback struck the hand of Moroccan defender Nouhaila Benzina. After VAR intervention, a penalty was awarded.
Gift Okoronkwo stepped up and converted calmly to pull one back for the Super Falcons, sparking belief in the team and fans alike.
Just eight minutes later, the comeback was complete. Okoronkwo burst down the right flank, beat her marker, and squared the ball perfectly for Ijamilusi to tap in the equalizer.
The decisive moment arrived in the 88th minute when a deep free kick was floated into the Moroccan penalty area. Jennifer Echegini, alert and well-positioned, stretched out her toe to poke the ball home from close range, sealing a sensational 3-2 win.
With this latest triumph, Nigeria have now lifted the WAFCON trophy a record 10 times, further solidifying their dominance in African women’s football. The win also cements coach Justin Madugu’s place in the history books and offers a massive morale boost ahead of global competitions.
This victory comes just days after President Bola Tinubu approved full payment of allowances and bonuses to the team, as reported earlier by 9am News Nigeria. Sports Commission Chairman Shehu Dikko praised the Falcons, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to honouring Nigerian athletes and fostering a dignified, professional sporting culture.
Stay tuned to 9am News Nigeria for more Breaking News, Business News, Sports updates And Entertainment Gists.
