Nigeria wins 10th WAFCON title with comeback against Morocco
Nigeria’s Super Falcons staged a sensational second-half comeback to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2, from two goals down, securing their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title on July 26, 2025, at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.
The final began with Morocco, the Atlas Lionesses, seizing control early. Backed by a passionate home crowd, they took the lead in the 12th minute when captain Ghizlane Chebbak seized on a loose ball from Nigerian midfielder Halimatu Ayinde, curling a stunning long-range shot past goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.
About 12 minutes later, Sanaa Mssoudy doubled Morocco’s advantage with a composed finish after a slick pass from Ibtissam Jraidi, leaving Nigeria shell-shocked at half-time. Morocco, coached by Jorge Vilda, the 2023 Women’s World Cup-winning coach from Spain, looked ready to claim their first-ever WAFCON crown. Nigeria’s campaign, branded “Mission X” to signify their pursuit of a 10th title, came under a jeopardy.
However, the turning point came in the second half, sparked by coach Justin Madugu’s halftime adjustments and the brilliance of Esther Okoronkwo. In the 64th minute, a VAR review awarded Nigeria a penalty after Morocco’s Nouhaila Benzina handled a cross from Folashade Ijamilusi. Okoronkwo stepped up, coolly converting the spot-kick to make it 2-1.
Seven minutes later, she turned provider, bursting through Morocco’s defence and slipping a precise pass to Ijamilusi, who drilled a low left-footed shot into the corner to level the score.
With the match heading toward extra time, Nigeria delivered the decisive blow. In the 88th minute, Okoronkwo’s clever free-kick found substitute Jennifer Echegini, who slotted home calmly to spark wild celebrations among the Super Falcons. Despite six minutes of added time, Nigeria held firm, sealing a victory that preserved their perfect record in WAFCON finals, 10 wins in 10 appearances.
Esther Okoronkwo emerged as the match’s hero, contributing a goal and two assists; Folashade Ijamilusi and Jennifer Echegini also earned recognitions for their crucial goals, while goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, was named the tournament’s best goalkeeper.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade was awarded Player of the Tournament, and coach Justin Madugu was honored as Coach of the Tournament for his tactical acumen.
For Morocco, Ghizlane Chebbak claimed the Golden Boot with five goals, though the defeat marked their second consecutive WAFCON final loss, after falling to South Africa in 2022. At 34, Chebbak had hoped to emulate her late father, Larbi, a 1976 Africa Cup of Nations winner, but her dream of a family legacy remains unfulfilled.
Morocco, despite the heartbreak, showcased their potential. Under Vilda’s guidance, the Atlas Lionesses have transformed since their return to WAFCON in 2022 after a 22-year absence. Their run to the final included a penalty shootout win over Ghana in the semifinals, though defensive lapses proved costly. Morocco will look to regroup as they prepare to host WAFCON for the third time in a row in 2026.
Nigeria’s victory sparked jubilation across Nigeria, with President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu praising the team’s courage and discipline. Social media erupted with pride, with posts on X calling the comeback a “remontada” and celebrating Nigeria’s “Mission X” success.
Written by Abeeb Lekan Sodiq
Abeeb Lekan Sodiq is a Managing Editor & Writer at theafricandream.net. He’s as well a Graphics Designer and also known as Arakunrin Lekan.
