Nigeria’s Super Falcons have once again proven their dominance in African women’s football, coming from two goals down to defeat Morocco 3–2 in an electrifying Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final held at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.
The victory secures Nigeria’s record-extending 10th continental crown and ends Morocco’s dream of a first-ever title on home soil.
The match began at a furious pace, with Morocco seizing the early momentum. Ghizlane Chebbak gave the hosts the lead in the 12th minute with a clever finish, sending the home crowd into wild celebrations.
Twelve minutes later, Sanaa Mssoudy doubled Morocco’s advantage after capitalizing on a defensive lapse from Nigeria. At that point, the Super Falcons looked rattled and were staring at the possibility of a heartbreaking defeat.
However, the Nigerian side emerged for the second half with renewed determination. In the 64th minute, forward Esther Okoronkwo stepped up and confidently converted a penalty to reduce the deficit.
That goal reignited belief among the Nigerian players and supporters, and just seven minutes later, in the 71st minute, Folashade Ijamilusi found the equalizer. She latched onto a pass from Okoronkwo and fired home, bringing Nigeria level at 2–2.
With the match approaching its final moments, Nigeria kept pressing and their efforts were rewarded. Esther Okoronkwo, already instrumental in the comeback, struck again to score the winning goal. Her second of the night and Nigeria’s third capped a remarkable turnaround that left Morocco stunned and silenced the once-roaring stadium.
The final whistle confirmed Nigeria’s place at the summit of African women’s football once more. Head coach Justin Madugu hailed the resilience of his players, calling the comeback “a testament to the spirit and tradition of Nigerian football.”
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, emotional after the match, said, “This is what we live for — to write history and to make our country proud. We never gave up.”
Morocco’s coach Jorge Vilda praised his players for their efforts and the progress they’ve made throughout the tournament, noting that despite the loss, the team had inspired millions across the region.
The 2025 WAFCON final will go down as one of the greatest in tournament history — a match that had everything: passion, drama, heartbreak, and triumph. With this win, the Super Falcons not only lifted the trophy but sent a powerful message that they remain the queens of African football.
