By Kwame Bediako
Nigeria staged an extraordinary second-half comeback to defeat hosts Morocco 3–2 and lift their 10th TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) crown on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Stade Olympique in Rabat.
Trailing 2–0 at halftime in front of a fervent Moroccan crowd, the Super Falcons overturned the deficit with goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and a late winner by Joe Echegini to secure a historic victory.
Morocco, seeking their first-ever continental title on home soil, appeared poised to make history early in the match. Captain Ghizlane Chebbak fired a stunning strike from outside the box in the 12th minute to give the Atlas Lionesses the lead, igniting the home crowd.
The hosts doubled their advantage in the 24th minute when Sanaâ Mssoudy calmly finished a slick pass from Ibtissam Jraidi, leaving Nigeria stunned heading into the break.
The Super Falcons’ fortunes changed dramatically after the interval.
Following a halftime talk from coach Justin Madugu, Nigeria found new life. The tide turned in the 61st minute when a VAR review awarded them a penalty for a handball by Nouhaila Benzina.
Esther Okoronkwo confidently converted, sparking a comeback that enthralled spectators. Ten minutes later, Okoronkwo assisted Folashade Ijamilusi’s equaliser, who delivered a clinical finish to level the score at 2–2.
As the match neared extra time, Nigeria sealed their triumph with a decisive goal.
A well-rehearsed set piece saw Okoronkwo play a clever pass to Joe Echegini, who calmly slotted home in the 88th minute. Despite Moroccan pressure in the dying moments, the Super Falcons held firm to claim a memorable victory that extended their dominance in African women’s football.
Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title not only cements their status as the continent’s most decorated women’s team but also sends a powerful message to emerging challengers.
In overcoming a passionate host side and mounting a thrilling comeback, the Super Falcons reaffirmed their legacy as queens of African football and champions of resilience and determination.
