Tinubu celebrates
In a thrilling and dramatic conclusion to the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), Nigeria’s Super Falcons staged a remarkable comeback from two goals down to secure their tenth continental title, defeating hosts Morocco 3-2 in the final held at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat on Saturday.
The match commenced with both teams eager to assert their dominance, but it was Morocco that struck first.
In the 12th minute, Captain Ghizlane Chebbak unleashed a spectacular long-range shot that thundered into the net, putting the hosts ahead.
Morocco maintained their momentum and doubled their advantage shortly thereafter, with Sana Mssoudy cutting inside to score in the 23rd minute, leaving Nigeria in a precarious position.
Despite trailing 2-0, Nigeria began to find their rhythm. However, their initial attempts to breach the Moroccan defence were thwarted, with players like Captain Rasheedat Ajibade and Chinwendu Ihezou struggling to convert their opportunities.
The turning point came in the 62nd minute when Nigeria was awarded a penalty following a handball by Moroccan defender Aicha Benzina.
Uchenna Okoronkwo stepped up to take the penalty and calmly slotted it home, igniting hopes of a comeback.
The momentum shifted dramatically with Nigeria’s second goal in the 71st minute. After a swift break into the box, Okoronkwo delivered a perfect pass to Favour Ijamilusi, who finished decisively to equalise at 2-2.
Just when it appeared that Morocco might cling on for a draw, Nigeria struck again. In the 88th minute, a well-executed set piece saw Jennifer Echegini rise to the occasion, scoring to give Nigeria a 3-2 lead and sending their supporters into raptures.
As the match entered injury time, Morocco made a desperate attempt to find an equaliser, but Nigeria’s defence held firm.
The final whistle confirmed Nigeria as champions of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Despite Morocco making changes to strengthen their attack, including introducing players such as Aziza Rabbah, it was insufficient to alter the outcome.
With this victory, Nigeria not only lifted the trophy but also made a powerful statement in women’s football, demonstrating their resilience in overcoming adversity.
As the celebrations erupted on the pitch, fans applauded both teams for their valiant efforts in a match that will be remembered for its intensity and drama.
President Bola Tinubu has celebrated Nigeria’s Super Falcons after their historic victory, hailing the team for clinching their 10th continental title and once again affirming their dominance on the African stage.
In a jubilant post on his X handle shortly after the final whistle, the President praised the Falcons’ resilience and fighting spirit, declaring that their mission to reclaim African glory had been accomplished.
“They chose to accept this mission. They understood the assignment. Our Superior Super Falcons delivered in true Naija fashion. Never say Never. They went. They saw. They have conquered again! 10-time champions of Africa. #MissionX: COMPLETE!” Tinubu wrote.
The Falcons’ 3-2victory over Morocco in the final secured a record-extending 10th WAFCON title, solidifying their reputation as the most successful team in African women’s football.
With the victory, the Super Falcons have not only reaffirmed Nigeria’s dominance in women’s football but also booked their place in the next FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers with renewed confidence.
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