WAFCON 2024: Nigeria’s Super Falcons beat Morocco for 10th title

Nigeria’s Super Falcons pulled off a stunning second-half comeback to beat hosts Morocco 3-2 and claim their 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title at the Stade Olympique in Rabat.

Backed by a crowd of over 50,000, Morocco looked on course for a historic win after taking a 2-0 lead before halftime. Goals from captain Ghizlane Chebbak and Sanaâ Mssoudy sent the homeside into the lead while Nigeria struggled to find their rhythm in a hostile environment.

Nigeria returned with renewed energy and purpose after the break.
The fightback began in the 52nd minute when Esther Okoronkwo buried a penalty after a Moroccan handball, giving the Super Falcons a lifeline.

Just ten minutes later, Okoronkwo turned provider. Her pinpoint cross from the right was met by defender Folashade Ijamilusi, who rose above the defense to head home the equalizer. Morocco’s early momentum had vanished.

Nigeria continued to push forward, and in the 78th minute, substitute Joe Echegini broke through the Moroccan back line and calmly finished to complete the turnaround. The bench erupted and the tide had fully turned in favor of the defending champions.

After the final whistle blew, the Nigerian players flooded the pitch in celebrating with their green and white colors. They finally lifted the trophy to the roar of traveling fans. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, speaking through tears of joy, said, “This is for every girl in Nigeria who dreams of this moment. We never stopped believing.”

The win secures Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title and their first since 2018, cementing their legacy as the most successful team in the tournament’s history. It also dashed Morocco’s hopes of a maiden title, though the Atlas Lionesses earned admiration for their spirited campaign.

Coach Randy Waldrum praised his team’s spirit: “At halftime, I told them we’re not out of this. They showed what it means to wear the green jersey.”

With this victory, Nigeria also booked their place at the 2025 FIFA Women’s World Cup, proving once again that they remain the team to beat in African women’s football.