By Olatunbosun Obafemi
The Super Falcons of Nigeria pulled off one of the most memorable comebacks in Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) history on Saturday, defeating hosts Morocco 3-2 to claim a record-extending tenth continental title, according to Soccernet.ng.
Heading into the final at Stade Olympique de Rabat, Nigeria were seen as slight favourites, thanks to their pedigree and depth. However, the first half didn’t go as planned. Morocco, spurred on by a boisterous home crowd, stunned the Nigerians by racing into a 2-0 lead within the first 24 minutes.
But as champions do, the Super Falcons responded with character and class. Nigeria stormed back in the second half, with goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Jennifer Echegini securing an extraordinary 3-2 victory — a performance that firmly re-established Nigeria’s dominance on the continent.
The second-half turnaround was sparked by impactful substitutions from head coach Justin Madugu, who brought on Echegini and Rinsola Babajide to inject energy into Nigeria’s midfield and attack. Okoronkwo converted a penalty to make it 2-1, before providing an assist for Ijamilusi’s equalizer. In the 87th minute, Echegini struck the winner with a composed half-volley, sending Nigeria into raptures and Morocco into heartbreak.
Beyond the team’s title triumph, Nigerian players swept the individual awards at the tournament. Coach Justin Madugu was named Best Coach of the tournament by CAF, a fitting recognition of his bold tactical decisions and leadership.
Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie earned the Goalkeeper of the Tournament accolade, having kept four clean sheets and conceding only three goals throughout the competition. Her commanding presence and vital saves were crucial in Nigeria’s road to glory.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade was named Woman of the Tournament, although some eyebrows were raised considering teammate Esther Okoronkwo had the highest goal contributions — two goals and six assists. Still, Ajibade’s leadership and work rate throughout the tournament clearly made a lasting impression on the voters.
Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak took home the Golden Boot after finishing with five goals, including one in the final. Meanwhile, South Africa’s Banyana Banyana were awarded the Fair Play Award for their disciplined performances.
With Nigeria reclaiming the continental title, attention now turns to the upcoming CAF Awards. After Zambian striker Barbra Banda claimed the 2023 CAF Women’s Player of the Year award, Nigeria is poised to regain control of the honour. Ajibade, with her WAFCON MVP award and strong club season at Atlético Madrid, is the leading contender. Okoronkwo, due to her outstanding goal contributions, and Nnadozie, thanks to her stellar goalkeeping, are also expected to feature in the final shortlist.
Although the date for the CAF Awards is yet to be announced, one thing is certain: the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award is almost certainly heading back to Nigeria.
