Nigeria’s Super Falcons delivered a spectacular second-half comeback to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 and secure their 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.
Morocco had taken a commanding 2-0 lead at half-time through goals by Ghizlane Chebbak and Sanaa Mssoudy. But Nigeria came roaring back with Esther Okoronkwo converting a penalty and then assisting Folashade Ijamilusi for the equaliser. Okoronkwo later set up Jennifer Echegini for the dramatic late winner, leaving the home crowd in Rabat silenced and stunned.
The Olympic Stadium, packed with 21,000 spectators, witnessed scenes of emotional celebration as Nigeria reclaimed the title they last won in 2018, maintaining their unbeaten record in all ten WAFCON finals they’ve contested. Morocco, led by 2023 World Cup-winning coach Jorge Vilda, were hoping to claim their first continental trophy but were left disappointed for the second successive final. Nigeria, who labelled their tournament campaign “Mission X,” not only achieved their goal but also became the first team to lift the redesigned WAFCON trophy, along with a $1 million prize purse.
Despite their confident pre-tournament declarations, Nigeria struggled early in the final, conceding two goals in the first 24 minutes. However, the game turned in the 64th minute when Okoronkwo calmly slotted in a penalty. Moments later, she created space and teed up Ijamilusi to draw Nigeria level. Morocco were briefly awarded a penalty, only for VAR to reverse the decision. The West Africans completed their remarkable turnaround in the 88th minute, when Okoronkwo delivered a perfect free-kick that Echegini converted from close range.
Morocco’s disappointment was compounded by the fact that they had invested heavily in both men’s and women’s football, with high hopes of winning silverware on home soil. Despite Chebbak’s Golden Boot win, the Atlas Lionesses have now lost back-to-back WAFCON finals. With Morocco set to host the next edition of the tournament in 2026, rebuilding efforts are already on the horizon. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s triumph reinforces their dominance in African women’s football and highlights their resilience and depth in the face of adversity.