Nigeria’s Super Falcons wrote a golden chapter in African football history on Saturday night as they pulled off a sensational comeback to defeat host nation Morocco 3-2 in Rabat, clinching their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title. Down 2-0 at halftime, the resilient Falcons completed what has now been dubbed “Mission X” — a title pursuit that seemed in peril before it ended in glory.
The comeback was sparked by Esther Okoronkwo, who ignited the revival with a 64th-minute penalty before assisting Folamide Ijamilusi and then delivering the decisive set-piece that Jennifer Echegini buried in the 88th minute. Nigeria’s victory not only reclaims the continental crown last won in 2018 but also extends their unbeaten run in WAFCON finals to a perfect 10 wins from 10.
Nigeria Super Falcons Show Grit and Guts After Nightmare Start
Despite coming into the final as the continent’s most successful team, Nigeria struggled in the first half against a confident Moroccan side. A misplaced pass from Halimatu Ayinde gifted Ghizlane Chebbak the opener in the 13th minute, and 11 minutes later, Sanaa Mssoudy doubled the lead after a scrambled effort slipped past goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.
But the halftime break proved pivotal. Coach Justin Madugu’s tactical recalibration gave Nigeria renewed shape and purpose. Okoronkwo’s cool penalty, following a VAR-confirmed handball, started the turnaround. Just seven minutes later, she cut through the Moroccan defense to assist Ijamilusi for the equalizer. A Moroccan penalty call was overturned by VAR, and Nigeria capitalized — Echegini’s late strike sealed a historic win and sparked emotional celebrations.
Moroccan Dreams Shattered Once Again on Home Soil
For Morocco, it was another heartbreaking night on home turf. Backed by royal funding, record crowds, and Spanish World Cup-winning coach Jorge Vilda, the Atlas Lionesses had dreamt of lifting their first-ever WAFCON title. They led for 50 minutes and seemed in control, but ultimately lost their grip in the face of Nigeria’s relentless pressure.
Captain Ghizlane Chebbak, who was chasing personal and national glory to match the legacy of her father Larbi Chebbak, finished as top scorer of the tournament with five goals. Yet the 35-year-old was inconsolable after the final whistle — the title remains elusive, and with time not on her side, the future of Morocco’s golden generation hangs in balance.
Muted Trophy Ceremony Amid Empty Seats
Ironically, the drama and emotion of Nigeria’s remarkable victory were not fully witnessed by the crowd. As the final whistle sounded, thousands of Moroccan fans exited the stadium in disappointment, leaving the medal and trophy presentation to be conducted in front of swathes of empty seats.
Despite the subdued scene, the Super Falcons soaked in the moment. FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Patrice Motsepe looked on as veteran captain Onome Ebi, 41 and playing her last WAFCON, hoisted the new trophy high. With $1 million in prize money and a legacy secured, Nigeria’s night was complete.
Looking Forward: Morocco Targets Redemption, Nigeria Eyes Dynasty
While Nigeria basks in triumph, Morocco must regroup. With the 2026 WAFCON also scheduled to be hosted on Moroccan soil, the Atlas Lionesses have a second chance at redemption. Coach Jorge Vilda’s influence has brought structural improvements, but mental toughness and match management remain concerns.
As for Super Falcons, this win signals the emergence of a balanced squad blending experience and youth. With leaders like Ebi bowing out and stars like Okoronkwo and Ijamilusi stepping up, a new generation of Super Falcons appears ready to carry the mantle forward. African women’s football has grown, but Nigeria still reigns supreme.
