The Super Falcons of Nigeria defeated The Atlas Lionesses of Morocco to win the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) last Saturday, thus getting their 10th trophy. The game was beautiful and worthy of a final. The Super Falcons delivered a performance worthy of football annals. At the end of the first half, they were trailing 2 – 0 with goals from Atlas Lionesses Ghizlane Chebbak and Sanaa Mssoudy; the game seemed sealed off. Then they fought back to secure a stunning 3 – 2 comeback victory against Morocco in the capital Rabat, with goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Jennifer Echegini. Everyone was stunned, except the Nigerians who believed in themselves until the last minute. This was also a sweet revenge for the Super Falcons since Morocco had eliminated Nigeria on penalties in the semi-finals of the 2022 edition, also hosted in Morocco. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade was named Player of the Tournament, while Chiamaka Nnadozie, Africa’s best goalkeeper for the past two years, was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament.

By this victory, they have sealed their place as the dominant and best team in Africa in Women’s soccer, the queens of African football… They have clinched the $1 million prize money. We now need our Super Falcons to represent us proudly on the international stage at the FIFA Women’s Cup by winning it… they are capable of it!

The Nigerian president Bola Tinubu said, “The Super Falcons’ spectacular performance tonight in Rabat, coming from behind to beat a spirited Moroccan side playing in front of a passionate home crowd, exemplifies the determination that defines the Nigerian spirit. … With hard work, dedication, and tenacity, you have achieved the mission the nation dreamed of and prayed for. The nation looks forward to welcoming our champions. Congratulations! Nigeria celebrates you,” he added. The president has promised to pay each player $100,000 plus a three-bedroom apartment. We all hope this will be real!