Super Falcons Pull Off Stunning Comeback to Claim Historic 10th WAFCON Title in Morocco.
In one of the most thrilling matches in the history of African womenâs football, Nigeriaâs Super Falcons delivered a stunning performance on Saturday night, overturning a two-goal halftime deficit to defeat hosts Morocco 3â2.
Super Falcons’ well-deserved 10th WAFCON title
This dramatic victory at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Olympic Stadium in Rabat not only secured Nigeria’s 10th Womenâs Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) titleâa record-extending achievementâbut also brought their self-declared mission, dubbed âMission X,â to a triumphant conclusion.
Backed by a raucous home crowd of over 21,000 fans, the Moroccan team began the match in dominant form. With dreams of securing their first-ever WAFCON trophy, the Atlas Lionesses surged ahead early
In the 13th minute, Ghizlane Chebbak fired in a spectacular long-range shot with her left foot, leaving the Nigerian goalkeeper helpless and putting Morocco 1â0 up.
The lead was doubled just over ten minutes later, in the 24th minute, when Sanaa Mssoudy calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner following a swift attacking move. The home side appeared to be cruising toward a historic title as the first half came to a close.
Second-Half Turnaround: Nigeria Fights Back
Despite being down by two goals, the Nigerian team came out of the break with renewed energy and focus, determined not to surrender their legacy without a fight.
The momentum began to shift in the 63rd minute when Nigeria was awarded a penalty after a VAR review confirmed a foul in the box. Esther Okoronkwo stepped up with confidence and calmly converted the spot-kick, cutting Moroccoâs lead to 2â1.
Just minutes later, in the 71st minute, Nigeria drew level. A clever attacking sequence led by Okoronkwo created the opportunity for Folashade Ijamilusi, who tapped in the equalizer from close range, reigniting the Super Falcons’ hopes.
Then, in dramatic fashion, substitute Jennifer Echegini sealed the comeback with a decisive goal in the 88th minute, turning in a deep free-kick to give Nigeria the lead for the first time in the matchâand ultimately the win.
Significance of the Win
This emotional and hard-fought victory further cements Nigeriaâs dominance in African womenâs football, making them champions in 10 out of 13 WAFCON tournaments.
Winning the title on Moroccan soil, especially after trailing by two goals in front of a passionate home crowd, speaks volumes about the teamâs resilience, mental strength, and tactical adaptability. It also sets a new benchmark for excellence in womenâs football across the continent.
Moroccoâs Rise and Heartbreaking Defeat
While Morocco failed to lift the trophy, the Atlas Lionesses won the admiration of fans and critics alike for their spirited performance throughout the tournament. Reaching the final for the first time was a historic milestone, even though it ended in heartbreakâtheir second consecutive WAFCON final loss at home.
Nonetheless, their progress signals a promising future and the emergence of Morocco as a genuine powerhouse in African womenâs football.
Post-Match Reactions and Milestones
After the match, players and coaches from both sides spoke of determination, teamwork, and belief, underscoring the emotional weight of the final. CAF President Patrice Motsepe presented the Nigerian champions with an increased prize of US$1 million, part of the expanded US$3.475 million tournament prize poolâa new record in support of womenâs sports development in Africa.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 WAFCON final will be remembered not only for the dramatic turnaround but also for what it represents in the evolution of African womenâs football. Nigeriaâs Super Falcons continue to lead the way, showing that success comes from a mix of legacy, belief, and the ability to rise under pressure
For Morocco, the sting of defeat may linger, but their ascent offers hope and signals a shifting balance of power in African womenâs football. The journey for both teamsâone in celebration and the other in reflectionâunderscores the growth, passion, and promise of the womenâs game across the continent.
