The Super Falcons of Nigeria have once again stamped their authority on the African football scene, coming from two goals down to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 and clinch their 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in a thrilling final on Saturday night.
Trailing 2-0 at halftime in front of a packed stadium in Rabat, the Falcons looked destined for heartbreak after Morocco’s captain Ghizlane Chebbak and striker Sanaâ Mssoudy scored in the 15th and 37th minutes respectively, sending the home crowd into raptures.
To add to the drama, reports indicated laser lights were consistently directed at Nigerian players—an act widely condemned as unsportsmanlike and against the spirit of fair play.
But true to their pedigree, the nine-time champions showed resilience, composure, and championship mentality in the second half. Nigeria pulled one back through Uchenna Kanu in the 56th minute before Asisat Oshoala leveled matters in the 72nd minute after a fine solo effort.
With the match appearing to be headed for extra time, Jennifer Echegini completed the epic turnaround in the 87th minute, calmly slotting home from an Esther Okoronkwo free-kick to seal a memorable 3-2 victory.
Watch as Jennifer Echegini seals the Super Falcons’ 10th WAFCON title, calmly finishing off Esther Okoronkwo’s free-kick in the 87th minute below:
The comeback not only showcased the Falcons’ mental strength and tactical adaptability, but also highlighted Nigeria’s continued dominance in African women’s football, now with 10 WAFCON titles to their name.
This victory marks a triumphant end to what has been a hard-fought tournament, and solidifies Nigeria’s legacy as Africa’s most successful women’s football team.
