In what will be remembered as one of the most dramatic finals in Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) history, the Super Falcons of Nigeria came from two goals down to defeat tournament hosts Morocco 3-2 and win the coveted WAFCON 2024 title on Friday night.
Dubbed Mission X by fans and media, Nigeria’s quest for an 10th continental crown appeared doomed after Morocco struck twice early in the first half — goals in the 13th and 23rd minutes gave the hosts a commanding lead and sent the packed Olympic Stadium in Rabat into a frenzy.
But the resilient Super Falcons, led by standouts Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Jennifer Echegini, flipped the script in the second half.
Okoronkwo began the comeback in the 63rd minute, confidently converting from the penalty spot to pull one back for Nigeria. Just 10 minutes later, she turned provider with a dazzling run and assist for Ijamilusi, who buried the equaliser to make it 2-2.
A late Moroccan penalty was overturned after a VAR check in the 83rd minute, much to Nigeria’s relief.
The final blow came In the 88th minute when Echegini latched onto a sublime cross and slotted home the winner, completing an unforgettable turnaround that broke Moroccan hearts and sent Nigerian fans into jubilation.
“Mission X accomplished!” was the resounding chant as the final whistle confirmed Nigeria’s status once again as queens of African football.
The victory marks Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title, solidifying the team’s dominance in women’s football on the continent and offering a renewed sense of hope ahead of future global competitions.