Nigeria’s Super Falcons have reclaimed their crown as the queens of African football after staging a stunning comeback to defeat host nation Morocco 3-2 in the final of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), held on Saturday night.
The thrilling encounter in Rabat saw the Falcons clinch their record-extending 10th continental title and a $1 million prize money, reaffirming their dominance in women’s football on the continent.
The final began on a shaky note for the Nigerian side, as Morocco raced to a 2-0 lead within the opening 25 minutes.
Ghizlane Chebbak opened scoring for the Atlas Lionesses in the 12th minute, before Sanaâ Mssoudy doubled the advantage in the 24th, sending the home crowd into frenzy.
But the resilient Super Falcons, driven by the pain of their semi-final penalty loss to the same Moroccan side in the 2022 edition, mounted a spirited comeback.
Esther Okoronkwo reduced the deficit in the 64th minute after converting a penalty. Just seven minutes later, Folashade Ijamilusi stunned the Moroccans with a brilliant equaliser to level the score.
As the tension soared, substitute Jennifer Echegini emerged the hero in the 88th minute, finishing off a well-delivered free kick from Okoronkwo to complete the turnaround and seal Nigeria’s dramatic win.
The victory capped off the team’s widely followed “Mission X” campaign, which aimed to win a 10th WAFCON title — a mission now gloriously accomplished.
Rasheedat Ajibade, who captained the squad, was named Player of the Tournament, while Chiamaka Nnadozie retained her status as Africa’s top goalkeeper, clinching the Goalkeeper of the Tournament award.
Nigeria’s win also preserves their impeccable record of never losing in a WAFCON final — a legacy unmatched in African women’s football.
Celebrations erupted across Nigeria following the historic win, as fans hailed the team’s resilience, talent, and never-say-die spirit.
The Super Falcons are now set to return home to a heroes’ welcome, with many already calling for better funding, support, and recognition for women’s football in Nigeria.
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