WAFCON 2024: Super Falcons Stun Morocco 3–2 in Epic Comeback Victory
In one of the most breathtaking finishes in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations – WAFCON 2024, Nigeria’s Super Falcons came from behind to defeat Morocco 3–2 in Rabat, lifting their 12th continental trophy. The dramatic final, played at the electrifying Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, featured twists, brilliant goals, and a showcase of sheer Nigerian resilience.
This victory reaffirms Nigeria’s place at the summit of African women’s football, while also demonstrating the increasing competitiveness and flair of the women’s game on the continent.
First-Half Setback: Morocco Strikes Early
The home crowd in Rabat roared in delight as Morocco came out blazing. The Nigerian team appeared sluggish in the early stages, and Morocco capitalized:
- 15th Minute: Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak opened the scoring with a clever finish from inside the box after a defensive lapse.
- 38th Minute: A well-placed header by Fatima Tagnaout doubled the lead, leaving the Super Falcons reeling before halftime.
At the break, it was 2–0 in favor of the hosts — a shock to Nigerian fans and neutrals who expected a more balanced affair.
Second-Half Turnaround: Nigeria Rises
Nigeria returned for the second half like a team transformed. Whatever Coach Randy Waldrum said in the dressing room sparked a revival.
- 52nd Minute: Rasheedat Ajibade pounced on a rebound to make it 2–1, igniting belief across the Nigerian bench and stands.
- 68th Minute: Substitute Uchenna Kanu leveled the score with a powerful volley after a brilliant cross from Toni Payne.
- 82nd Minute: The match-winner came from Gift Monday, who showed pace and composure to slot home past the Moroccan keeper after a swift counterattack.
The final whistle confirmed a heroic comeback — 3 goals in 30 minutes to snatch the title away from the hosts.
Tactical Brilliance Behind the Win
Nigeria’s second-half strategy was textbook excellence. Coach Waldrum introduced midfield steel and attacking width that overwhelmed Morocco’s tiring defense.
The substitutions were pivotal. Kanu and Monday made immediate impacts, while the midfield duo of Christy Ucheibe and Ngozi Okobi tightened up passing lanes and controlled possession.
Morocco’s early press faded in the second half, and Nigeria’s counterattacking pace exposed gaps, flipping the game’s momentum completely.
Nigeria’s Legacy: 10-Time Champions of Africa
The 2024 victory extends Nigeria’s record to 10 WAFCON titles, unmatched by any nation on the continent. Their dominance spans decades, beginning with the inaugural tournament in 1991.
🏆 Nigeria’s WAFCON Wins by Year:
- 1991, 1995, 1998, 2000, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2016, and now, 2025
- Missed the final only twice since the tournament began, reinforcing their legacy
While other teams like South Africa and Morocco have shown great improvement, the Super Falcons remain the benchmark for excellence in African women’s football.
Emotional Reactions Across Nigeria
As the final goal went in, social media erupted. Hashtags like #SuperFalcons, #WAFCONQueens, and #NaijaVictory trended worldwide.
Stadium viewing centers in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Benin City saw crowds cheering, waving flags, and singing victory songs. Nigeria’s President issued a public congratulatory message, calling the Super Falcons “icons of hope and pride.”
Sports analysts praised the team’s fighting spirit, while former internationals like Perpetua Nkwocha and Desire Oparanozie celebrated the performance on live TV.
What This Means for the Future of African Women’s Football
This final wasn’t just about winning — it was a message. The women’s game in Africa has arrived on the big stage, and Nigeria is once again leading the charge.
Morocco’s impressive performance as hosts, combined with South Africa’s consistent rise, shows a more competitive landscape. But Nigeria’s youth development programs, professional player pool, and global presence give them an edge going forward.
As WAFCON 2025 wraps up, all eyes are now on the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup, where Nigeria hopes to go further than ever before.
Super Falcons Prove Why They’re Africa’s Best
From heartbreak in the first half to jubilation in the second, the 2024 WAFCON final will go down as one of the most thrilling matches in African women’s football history.
With a 3–2 comeback victory over a talented Moroccan side, Nigeria’s Super Falcons have once again shown that they are queens of the continent — unshaken, unbroken, and unbeatable when it matters most.
The win is not just a trophy — it’s a statement of leadership, resilience, and unshakable Nigerian spirit.