What began as a Moroccan celebration ended in stunned silence at the Stade Olympique on Saturday night, as Nigeria’s Super Falcons staged one of the greatest comebacks in Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) history to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 and claim their 10th continental title.
Down 2-0 at halftime, Nigeria looked outmatched by a Moroccan side riding a wave of home support and early momentum. Ghizlane Chebbak opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a superb long-range strike, and Sanaâ Mssoudy added a second shortly after, finishing a slick move orchestrated by Ibtissam Jraidi.
With the stadium rocking and Morocco seemingly in control, Nigeria entered the break facing a daunting task. But coach Justin Madugu’s halftime team talk sparked a remarkable turnaround.
The comeback began just past the hour mark. A VAR review awarded Nigeria a penalty after a handball by Nouhaila Benzina. Esther Okoronkwo stepped up and calmly slotted it home to make it 2-1 — and shift the energy in Rabat.
Ten minutes later, Okoronkwo was at it again, this time setting up Folashade Ijamilusi, who equalized with a powerful left-footed strike. The Super Falcons had found their rhythm, and Morocco — once commanding — looked rattled.
With extra time looming, Nigeria struck the decisive blow. A clever set-piece routine in the 88th minute saw Okoronkwo provide yet another assist, this time to Joe Echegini, who fired in the winner.
Despite a late push from Morocco, Nigeria held firm to seal a dramatic and emotional victory — one that reminded the continent of their unmatched pedigree.
From trailing in stunned silence to roaring champions, the Super Falcons proved once again that when it matters most, they rise — and with this win, they proudly lift their 10th WAFCON trophy.
AfrikPage
