By Olatunbosun Obafemi
In a thrilling finale to the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), the Super Falcons of Nigeria pulled off a stunning comeback to defeat host nation Morocco 3-2 at the Stade Olympique in Rabat.
The victory not only sealed Nigeria’s record-extending 10th WAFCON title but also made them the first team to come back from two goals down at halftime to win a final in regulation time.
Backed by a passionate home crowd and led by Spanish coach Jorge Vilda, the Atlas Lionesses started the match with relentless energy and pressed the Nigerian defence high up the pitch. Their early pressure paid off in the 13th minute when a defensive mix-up from Nigeria left Ghizlane Chebbak with space at the edge of the box. She wasted no time, unleashing a thunderous strike that beat Chiamaka Nnadozie to give Morocco a deserved lead.
Before Nigeria could recover, the hosts doubled their advantage. In the 24th minute, Sanaa Mssoudy got the better of Michelle Alozie on the left wing and drilled a low shot past Nnadozie to make it 2-0. Morocco’s tactical discipline and home support saw them take complete control of the first half, while Nigeria struggled to connect their midfield and attack. Justin Madugu’s direct approach, relying on long balls to the forwards, proved ineffective against Morocco’s well-organized defence.
Nigeria needed a spark, and it came in the second half. Madugu made crucial substitutions in the 58th minute, bringing on Jennifer Echegini and Rinsola Babajide for Halimatu Ayinde and Chinwendu Ihezuo. The changes immediately impacted the rhythm of the game. Nigeria began to keep the ball on the ground and found more joy moving through midfield.
Their persistence paid off in the 62nd minute when VAR awarded a penalty to Nigeria following a handball by a Moroccan defender in the box. Okoronkwo stepped up and calmly slotted home from the spot in the 64th minute to reduce the deficit to 2-1. Just two minutes later, Nigeria drew level. Okoronkwo turned provider, winning the ball high up the pitch and beating her marker before squaring to Folashade Ijamilusi, who slid the ball into the net to make it 2-2.
With momentum firmly on their side, the Super Falcons pushed for a winner. Their resilience was rewarded in the 87th minute. After winning a free kick near the edge of the box, Okoronkwo delivered a precise cross into the area. Echegini, unmarked, met the ball with a perfectly timed half-volley that flew into the net, completing a remarkable comeback.
Despite late pressure from Morocco, Nigeria held firm until the final whistle. The win not only secured their 10th continental crown but also reaffirmed their status as Africa’s most successful women’s football team. For the Super Falcons, this was more than just a title – it was a statement of belief, depth, and unbreakable spirit.
