Nigeria’s Sensational Comeback in WAFCON Finals

On July 26, 2025, Nigeria’s Super Falcons delivered a stunning second-half comeback to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 in Rabat, securing a record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.

The victory at the 21,000-capacity Olympic Stadium silenced the home crowd and marked Nigeria’s 100% record in WAFCON finals, reclaiming the title last won in 2018.

Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses led 2-0 at halftime with goals from Ghizlane Chebbak’s curling strike in the 13th minute and Sanaa Mssoudy’s effort in the 24th.

However, Nigeria, under coach Justin Madugu, turned the game around after the break, led by Esther Okoronkwo’s heroics.

Key Moments of the Match

The Super Falcons’ revival began in the 64th minute when Okoronkwo converted a penalty after Nouhaila Benzina handled Folashade Ijamilusi’s cross, making it 2-1.

Okoronkwo then burst through Morocco’s defense in the 71st minute, setting up Ijamilusi for the equalizer.

With two minutes remaining, Okoronkwo’s pinpoint free-kick found substitute Jennifer Echegini, who scored the winner past Benzina.

A critical moment came in the 79th minute when Morocco was awarded a penalty for a handball by Blessing Demehin.

After a nearly four-minute VAR review, Namibian referee Antsino Twanyanyukwa overturned the decision, preserving Nigeria’s momentum.

Nigeria’s Mission X Accomplished

Dubbed “Mission X” for their goal of a 10th title, Nigeria’s campaign overcame a sluggish first half.

The Super Falcons, Africa’s top-ranked team, struggled early as Chebbak capitalized on Halimatu Ayinde’s error, and Mssoudy doubled Morocco’s lead.

However, Madugu’s tactical adjustments and Okoronkwo’s composure sparked the comeback, earning Nigeria $1 million in prize money—doubled from the previous edition—and the new-look WAFCON trophy.

This victory marks Nigeria’s third WAFCON final win against a host nation, following triumphs over South Africa (2000) and Cameroon (2016).

Morocco’s Continued Quest for Glory

Morocco, backed by significant investment from King Mohammed VI, aimed for their first continental crown under 2023 Women’s World Cup-winning coach Jorge Vilda.

Despite Chebbak’s five-goal Golden Boot performance, the Atlas Lionesses fell short, losing their second consecutive WAFCON final after a 2022 defeat to South Africa.

Morocco’s journey included comebacks and a penalty shootout win over Ghana in the semifinals, but their title drought continues as they prepare to host WAFCON 2026 in March.

Chebbak, hoping to emulate her late father Larbi’s 1976 AFCON win, faces an uncertain future at 36 by the next tournament.

Broader Context and Impact

The 2024 WAFCON, delayed due to scheduling conflicts with the Paris 2024 Olympics, showcased Nigeria’s dominance and Morocco’s growing ambitions.

The stadium emptied before the presentation by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Patrice Motsepe, reflecting the home crowd’s disappointment.

Nigeria’s victory reinforces their status as Africa’s football powerhouse, while Morocco’s investment signals a bright future for women’s football in the region.

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