In a display of championship pedigree, Nigeria’s Super Falcons mounted a sensational comeback to defeat host nation Morocco 3-2 in a thrilling 2024 WAFCON final. They secured their record-extending tenth continental title. The atmosphere at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat was electric. A sea of red and green home supporters anticipated a historic win for the Atlas Lionesses. However, the Super Falcons, true to their legendary status, had other plans.
The first half belonged firmly to Morocco. They rode the wave of unyielding home support to take a commanding two-goal lead. Captain Ghizlane Chebbak ignited the stadium in the 12th minute with a beautifully curled strike from outside the box. Leaving Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie with no chance. Just twelve minutes later, the Moroccan faithful were in raptures again. Sanaâ Mssoudy capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot home, making it 2-0. At halftime, the Nigerian camp faced a daunting task, seemingly outmanoeuvred and silenced by the vibrant Moroccan attack.
However, the Super Falcons emerged from the break with a renewed sense of purpose. The comeback began in the 64th minute when Esther Okoronkwo calmly converted a penalty. A VAR review confirmed a Moroccan handball in the box, giving Nigeria a much-needed lifeline. This goal visibly shifted the momentum to the Nigerian side. Just seven minutes later, Okoronkwo turned provider, delivering a perfectly weighted pass for Folashade Ijamilusi. She made no mistake in slotting the ball home to level the scores at 2-2. Sending the Nigerian bench and travelling supporters into a frenzy.
With the game seemingly destined for extra time, the Super Falcons delivered the decisive blow in the 88th minute. A superb free-kick from the impressive Okoronkwo found substitute Jennifer Echegini, who unleashed a powerful half-volley that ripped into the net. It silenced the partisan home crowd and completed one of the most remarkable comebacks in WAFCON history. The final whistle was met with jubilant celebrations from the Nigerian contingent. They had snatched victory from the jaws of defeat.
This triumph marks a monumental achievement for the Super Falcons. They extended their unprecedented dominance in African women’s football to a remarkable tenth WAFCON title. Since the competition’s inception as a full-scale tournament in 1998, Nigeria has asserted itself as the undisputed queen of African football. Consistently showcasing a blend of talent, tactical prowess, and an unyielding will to win. This victory, hard-fought against a formidable host nation, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and unwavering spirit of the Super Falcons. Nigeria truly reigns supreme once again.