In one of the most dramatic Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) finals in history, Nigeria’s Super Falcons roared back from two goals down to defeat hosts Morocco 3–2 on Saturday night at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, sealing a record‑extending 10th continental crown.
The breathtaking turnaround, watched by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Patrice Motsepe, underscored the fighting spirit and pedigree of the Super Falcons. For the Atlas Lionesses, it was a heart‑wrenching end to what had been a dream run.
Morocco appeared to be cruising early on. Captain Ghizlane Chebbak blasted in a fierce 13th‑minute opener before Sanaâ Mssoudy weaved through the Nigerian defence to make it 2–0 in the 24th minute, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. Nigeria, despite holding only 43% of possession, looked out of rhythm and created little danger before halftime.
But the second half told a different story. In the 63rd minute, the Falcons found a lifeline when Ijamilusi’s cross struck Nouhaila Benzina’s arm in the box. Despite Moroccan protests, the referee awarded a penalty, which Jennifer Okoronkwo coolly converted to cut the deficit.
Just eight minutes later, the comeback gathered pace. Okoronkwo stormed down the right flank and squared a low ball for Ijamilusi, who tapped home to level at 2–2.
Morocco thought they had earned a penalty in the 79th minute after another handball shout, but VAR intervened to overturn the decision—further frustrating the hosts.
With extra time looming, Nigeria delivered the decisive blow in the 88th minute. Christy Ucheibe’s long free‑kick found Toni Payne, whose flick set up Chinwendu Echegini to slot home the winner and complete an unforgettable comeback.
Coach Randy Waldrum, ecstatic after the match, said the victory was proof of the team’s character: “They showed the heart of champions. From two goals down, they never stopped believing—this is what makes the Super Falcons special.”
The triumph also earned Nigeria a $1 million prize, part of CAF’s expanded prize pool, and cemented their status as Africa’s most decorated women’s team.
In the third‑place playoff, Ghana beat South Africa 4–3 on penalties after a 1–1 draw to claim bronze. But the night belonged to the Super Falcons—champions again, thanks to a comeback for the ages.
