The Nigeria Super Falcons came from two goals down to beat Morocco 3-2 and claim a record-extending 10th WAFCON title in Rabat
It was a night to remember in Rabat as Nigeria completed a stunning comeback to defeat Morocco 3-2 and win their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title. The Super Falcons, long regarded as the queens of African football, once again proved why they remain the most dominant force on the continent.
The final at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat had everything – goals, drama, controversy, and an electric atmosphere from a passionate home crowd. Nigeria entered the match looking to reclaim the trophy they lost in 2022, while Morocco aimed to win their first-ever WAFCON title in front of their fans.
Justine Madugu’s side started with purpose, pushing high and threatening Morocco’s defence early on. Esther Okoronkwo and Rasheedat Ajibade looked lively, constantly probing for an opening. However, Morocco’s backline, marshalled by Nouhaila Benzina, stood firm to repel the early pressure.
Against the run of play, Morocco drew first blood. In the 12th minute, a poor clearance from Halimatu Ayinde fell kindly to captain Ghizlane Chebbak, who unleashed a brilliant long-range strike that flew past Chiamaka Nnadozie. The home crowd erupted as Morocco took a shock 1-0 lead.
Things got worse for Nigeria just 12 minutes later. A moment of defensive chaos allowed Sanaa Mssoudy to pounce, calmly slotting home to double Morocco’s advantage. The Atlas Lionesses were in dreamland, and the Super Falcons appeared shell-shocked.
But champions always find a way to rise. Nigeria emerged from the halftime break a different side – sharper, hungrier, and determined to flip the script. In the 64th minute, VAR awarded the Super Falcons a penalty after Benzina handled the ball inside the area. Okoronkwo stepped up and calmly slotted past Ckay Noud in goal to ignite hopes of a comeback.
HIGHLIGHTS: 2-3
Nigeria’s comeback is well worth gold after Morocco’s first half lead. #TotalEnergiesWAFCON2024 pic.twitter.com/kFvDOiEmWW
— CAF Women’s Football (@CAFwomen) July 27, 2025
Just seven minutes later, Nigeria were level. Okoronkwo turned provider, delivering a brilliant pass to Folashade Ijamilusi, who tucked the ball into an empty net. The momentum had completely shifted, with the Super Falcons now in full control.
Morocco tried to regroup, and in the 78th minute, they thought they had a chance to retake the lead. Referee Antsino Twanyanyukwa awarded the hosts a penalty after Imane Saoud’s cross struck Oluwatosin Demehin’s hand. However, VAR intervened, overturning the decision after replays showed that Demehin’s arm was in a natural position.
The final moments were filled with tension, with both sides throwing everything forward. Then came the decisive moment. With just two minutes left on the clock, Okoronkwo delivered a precise free-kick into the box, and Jennifer Echegini pounced, firing home to seal Nigeria’s incredible turnaround.
The final whistle sparked wild celebrations among the Nigerian players and fans. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade lifted the trophy high as the Super Falcons celebrated “Mission X” – their 10th continental title, further cementing their dominance in African women’s football.
Leading her team to glory with some of the best performances earned her the TotalEnergies Woman of the Competition.
#TotalEnergiesWAFCON2024 | @Football2Gether pic.twitter.com/KV1gbLs7yX
— CAF Women’s Football (@CAFwomen) July 27, 2025
The awards ceremony crowned Nigeria’s memorable night. Chiamaka Nnadozie was named Best Goalkeeper for her outstanding saves throughout the tournament, while Ajibade received the Player of the Tournament award for her inspirational performances. Morocco’s Chebbak, despite her team’s heartbreak, finished as the top scorer with five goals. South Africa earned the Fair Play Award for their exemplary sportsmanship during the competition.
It was always going to be the #EnergyOfTheDay, wasn’t it? @Football2Gether | #TotalEnergiesWAFCON2024 pic.twitter.com/I0DGmwE17w
— CAF Women’s Football (@CAFwomen) July 27, 2025
The victory marked another golden chapter in Nigeria’s football history. From two goals down, the Super Falcons showed the mentality and fighting spirit that have made them Africa’s most successful team. With Madugu at the helm, Nigeria not only reclaimed their crown but also sent a powerful message – they remain the undisputed giants of African women’s football.
The scenes in Rabat were unforgettable – Nigeria’s players draped in green and white, celebrating their hard-fought triumph, while Moroccan fans watched in stunned silence. It was a final that had everything, a spectacle befitting Africa’s biggest stage, and one that will be remembered for years to come.
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