Second-half heroics seal thrilling 3-2 victory as Nigeria cements dominance in African women’s football
RABAT, Morocco – In a match that will be remembered for its sheer drama and resilience, Nigeria’s Super Falcons staged a stunning second-half comeback to defeat Morocco 3-2 in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final, securing a record-extending 10th title.
Hosts Dominate Early, But Falcons Soar Late
The Atlas Lionesses, backed by a roaring home crowd at Rabat’s Olympic Stadium, looked set for a fairytale victory after taking a commanding first-half lead. Captain Ghizlane Chebbak opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a spectacular long-range strike, capitalizing on a defensive error. The hosts doubled their advantage just 12 minutes later when Sanaa Mssoudy punished Nigeria’s shaky backline, sending the Moroccan fans into euphoria.
But the Super Falcons, known for their never-say-die attitude, emerged from the break with renewed fire. The comeback began in the 64th minute when Esther Okoronkwo coolly converted a penalty after a VAR review confirmed a handball by Morocco’s Nouhaila Benzina.
Seven minutes later, Folashade Ijamilusi tapped into an empty net following a brilliant assist from Okoronkwo, leveling the score and shifting momentum firmly in Nigeria’s favor. The Falcons continued to dominate, but Morocco nearly clawed back when a controversial penalty was initially awarded—only for VAR to overturn the decision, ruling that defender Oluwatosin Demehin’s hand was in a natural position.
With just two minutes left on the clock, Jennifer Echegini delivered the knockout blow, firing home from a perfectly executed free-kick by Okoronkwo to complete Nigeria’s ‘Mission X’—their quest for a 10th title.
Individual Honors Reflect Nigeria’s Strength
At the awards ceremony, Nigeria’s stars shone brightly. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie was named Best Goalkeeper, while captain Rasheedat Ajibade took home the Player of the Tournament prize. Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak, despite the heartbreak, finished as the tournament’s top scorer with five goals, while South Africa earned the Fair Play Award.
The victory not only reinforces Nigeria’s status as Africa’s premier women’s football nation but also serves as a testament to their mental toughness. For Morocco, the defeat will sting, but their impressive run to the final signals a bright future for women’s football in the region.
As the Super Falcons celebrated, lifting the trophy amid confetti and cheers, one thing was clear: Nigerian football royalty has once again claimed its throne.
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