- Morocco led into the second half but struggled to contain the experienced Super Falcons in the closing stages.
- The victory means Nigeria have won the WAFCON title in consecutive tournaments, solidifying their continental dominance.
The Super Falcons, on Saturday night, pulled off a stunning comeback to defeat Morocco 3-2 and win a record 10th WAFCON title.
The Super Falcons have succeeded in winning the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title at least once in consecutive tournaments.
The pulsating final, played inside the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, saw Nigeria fight back from two goals down to snatch the historic victory.
Coach Justine Madugu’s side looked destined for defeat before late heroics turned the tide in favour of the defending champions.
Morocco struck first in the 13th minute through Ghizlane Chebbak, who rifled home after a defensive mix-up left her unmarked.
Eleven minutes later, Sanaa Mssoudy doubled the hosts’ advantage with a precise finish into the bottom corner, sending the home crowd into wild celebration.
Nigeria started with just one change from the semi-final win against South Africa, handing a midfield role to Deborah Abiodun.
CAF president, Patrice Motsepe, and FIFA president, Gianni Infantino, were both in attendance as the hosts dominated the first half.
The Falcons regrouped in the second period and made tactical substitutions, including the introduction of Jennifer Echegini and Rinsola Babajide.
Their impact was immediate, with Nigeria mounting wave after wave of attacks in search of a lifeline.
After a lengthy VAR check, the referee awarded a penalty for handball against Morocco following Florence Ijamilusi’s cross.
Esther Okoronkwo stepped up and calmly slotted past the goalkeeper in the 64th minute to reduce the deficit.
Just six minutes later, Okoronkwo turned provider, swinging in a dangerous cross that Ijamilusi converted from close range to make it 2-2.
Morocco thought they had won a penalty of their own when the referee pointed to the spot for a handball by Folashade Demehin.
Following another VAR intervention, the decision was overturned, with the referee judging that the defender’s hand was in a natural position.
With just two minutes to go, Echegini grabbed the winner with a fierce shot that nestled into the back of the net.
The result secured Nigeria’s 10th continental title and ensured they remain the most successful team in WAFCON history.
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