Nigeria’s Super Falcons Win 10th WAFCON Title with Thrilling 3-2 Comeback Over Morocco

Nigeria’s Super Falcons secured a historic 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title, defeating hosts Morocco 3-2 in a dramatic final at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat on July 26, 2025. Trailing 2-0 at halftime, the Super Falcons staged a stunning second-half comeback to maintain their perfect record in WAFCON finals and complete their “Mission X” campaign.

Match Recap
Morocco took control early with goals from captain Ghizlane Chebbak (12th minute) and Sanaa Mssoudy (24th minute), capitalizing on a lackluster first half from Nigeria. The Atlas Lionesses, backed by a 21,000-capacity home crowd, appeared poised to claim their first-ever WAFCON title. However, Nigeria, led by coach Justine Madugu, turned the tide after the break. Esther Okoronkwo sparked the comeback with a 64th-minute penalty after a handball by Morocco’s Nouhaila Benzina, confirmed by VAR. Okoronkwo then assisted Folashade Ijamilusi’s close-range equalizer in the 71st minute. The decisive moment came in the 88th minute when substitute Jennifer Echegini scored off Okoronkwo’s free-kick, sealing a 3-2 victory. A late VAR-overturned penalty call for Morocco, involving Oluwatosin Demehin’s handball, preserved Nigeria’s lead, leaving the hosts stunned. Okoronkwo was named Player of the Match for her goal and two assists.

Key Stats and Performances

• Nigeria: Recorded 14 shots (5 on target), 55% possession, and 280 passes (69% accuracy). Eight different players scored across the tournament, showcasing their depth, with Okoronkwo leading with four assists. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie conceded just three goals in six matches.
• Morocco: Managed 10 shots (3 on target) and leaned on Chebbak’s four tournament goals, joint-top scorer. Despite the loss, their second consecutive final appearance highlights their rise in African women’s football.
• Turning Point: The VAR decisions—awarding Nigeria’s penalty and overturning Morocco’s—shifted momentum, with Nigeria’s substitutes Echegini and Rinsola Babajide adding crucial energy.

Context and Significance
Nigeria, the continent’s top-ranked team, avenged their 2022 semi-final loss to Morocco (a 5-4 penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw) and extended their dominance, having won 10 of 13 WAFCON editions. Their “Mission X” branding reflected their determination to reclaim the title last won in 2018. Morocco, under controversial coach Jorge Vilda, showed resilience but fell short of becoming the first North African nation to win, despite heavy investment in women’s football. The $1 million prize money, doubled from 2022, and a new trophy added to the victory’s weight for Nigeria.

What’s Next?
The Super Falcons’ triumph qualifies them for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, alongside Morocco, South Africa, and Zambia. Morocco’s back-to-back finals signal their growing stature, but Nigeria’s depth and grit reaffirmed their status as Africa’s queens. The 2026 WAFCON, set for March, will see Nigeria defend their crown. Note: Match details are based on recent reports; official statistics may vary slightly. Check confederation or club channels for further updates.