In a breathtaking display of resilience and championship pedigree, Nigeria’s Super Falcons mounted an extraordinary second-half comeback to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 and lift their record-extending 10th CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) crown at the Stade Olympique in Rabat on Saturday night.

This stunning victory further cemented Nigeria’s status as the undisputed queens of African women’s football.

Trailing by two goals at halftime in front of a fervent Moroccan home crowd, the Super Falcons, renowned for their never-say-die spirit, clawed their way back into the match with a combination of clinical finishing and sheer determination.

Goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and a dramatic late winner by Joe Echegini silenced the partisan crowd and crushed Morocco’s hopes of clinching their first-ever continental title on home soil.

The final had all the hallmarks of a classic. Morocco, riding a wave of national support, got off to a dream start. Captain Ghizlane Chebbak opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a brilliant strike, followed by Sanaâ Mssoudy doubling their lead in the 24th minute.

Nigeria appeared stunned, heading into the break facing a monumental uphill battle.

However, coach Justin Madugu’s half-time address clearly ignited a fiery response. The comeback began just after the hour mark when a VAR review awarded Nigeria a penalty, which Esther Okoronkwo coolly converted to make it 2-1.

The momentum visibly shifted. In the 71st minute, Okoronkwo turned provider, setting up Ijamilusi for a clinical left-footed equalizer.

With extra time looming, Nigeria found the decisive blow in the 88th minute. A well-worked set-piece saw Esther Okoronkwo once again instrumental, delivering a clever assist to Joe Echegini, who calmly slotted home to seal the dramatic turnaround.

Despite a late flurry of Moroccan attacks, the Super Falcons held firm through a tense period of stoppage time, securing their historic victory.

It was a heartbreaking end for Jorge Vilda’s impressive Moroccan side, who had showcased tremendous improvement throughout the tournament.

However, the night undeniably belonged to the Super Falcons, whose unmatched experience and indomitable spirit propelled them to yet another African title – their 10th in 13 editions.

This triumph not only extended Nigeria’s unparalleled legacy but also served as a resounding statement that, even in the face of rising challengers, they remain the team to beat in African women’s football.

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