The Super Falcons of Nigeria have won their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title, defeating hosts Morocco 3–2 in a thrilling final on Saturday night in Rabat.
Nigeria came from behind to secure the victory, with Esther Okoronkwo playing a key role, scoring a penalty and assisting the other two goals by Flourish Ijamilusi and Jennifer Echegini. Morocco took an early lead, but the Falcons responded with intensity, turning the game around. Okoronkwo’s equalizer from the spot restored confidence, and her visionary playmaking turned the tide in Nigeria’s favor. Despite a late Moroccan rally that cut the deficit to 3–2, the Super Falcons held firm in the dying minutes to seal a famous victory.
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The win marks Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title and reaffirms their status as the most successful team in the competition’s history. Four Nigerian players were named in the CAF Team of the Tournament for their outstanding performances: Rasheedat Ajibade, Chiamaka Nnadozie, Michelle Alozie, and Esther Okoronkwo.
Ajibade, the team captain, was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament. Her pace, leadership, and relentless attacking play earned her three Woman of the Match awards over six games. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie was a wall between the posts, conceding only two goals in open play — both in the final — and was awarded Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament.
Michelle Alozie, a vital force on the right flank, combined solid defending with attacking threat and even scored the decisive goal in Nigeria’s semifinal win to reach the final. Okoronkwo, with six assists — the most in the tournament — was instrumental in orchestrating Nigeria’s attacking play throughout the competition.
Following their historic triumph, the Super Falcons returned to a hero’s welcome in Abuja on Monday afternoon, landing at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. The team is expected to hold a trophy parade through key areas of the capital, including Airport Road, Berger Junction, Maitama, and Wuse Market, allowing fans to celebrate with the champions.
Later today, the team will be hosted by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, in recognition of their remarkable achievement and representation of Nigeria on the continental stage.
The 2024 WAFCON title not only adds another feather to Nigeria’s illustrious football history but also showcases a new generation of Super Falcons ready to carry the legacy forward.