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•As team accomplishes WAFCON Mission X in Rabat
By Bolaji Okunola
Nigeria’s Super Falcons flied away a premier prize money of one million dollars after sealing their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title with a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over hosts Morocco at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat on Saturday night.
With the win, the Super Falcons have set a new world record for the most continental titles by a national team, surpassing China (AFC) and the United States (Concacaf), with whom they previously shared the record.
The final had all the makings of a classic, and it delivered in full. Morocco, spurred on by a boisterous home crowd, took control early, stunning Nigeria with two goals in the first half.
Ghizlane Chebbak opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a thunderous strike from outside the box. Sanaa Mssoudy doubled the lead in the 24th minute after pouncing on a defensive lapse.
Nigeria, though shaken, showed resilience and began to claw their way back in the second half. VAR awarded the Super Falcons a penalty in the 60th minute after a Moroccan handball, and Esther Okoronkwo stepped up to convert calmly.
The equaliser came just 11 minutes later, as Okoronkwo again created space and delivered a pinpoint pass for Folashade Ijamilusi to score.
With the match level at 2-2 and Morocco pushing for a winner, the hosts were awarded a penalty in the 80th minute after a series of corners.
But following a lengthy VAR check, the decision was overturned, much to Nigeria’s relief.
Then, in the 88th minute, Nigeria completed the turnaround. After being fouled, Mitchelle Alozie earned a free-kick just outside the area.
Okoronkwo, who had been instrumental all game, delivered a dangerous ball into the box. Substitute Jennifer Echegini reacted quickest and slotted home what proved to be the title-winning goal.
Despite Morocco’s late push, Nigeria’s defence, marshalled by Ashleigh Plumptre and Osinachi Ohale, held firm.
Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie made key saves to ensure Nigeria’s grip on the trophy remained tight.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Justine Madugu’s girls.
His message was conveyed by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement.
“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,” President Tinubu said.
He further lauded their dedication and perseverance, emphasizing that their success fulfilled a national aspiration: “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.”
