By: Oluwatobi Aroyehun
Nigeria’s Super Falcons staged a stunning comeback to defeat hosts Morocco 3–2 in the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final on Saturday, July 26, 2025.
The victory, sealed in the dying minutes of the explosive match, delivered Nigeria their 10th international championship title and a $1 million prize, securing their long legacy as the undisputed queens of African women’s football.
The victory was more than a trophy, it was a deeply emotional redemption for the Falcons, who had faced heartbreak at the hands of Morocco in the 2022 WAFCON semi-finals, losing on penalties on the same soil.
The final in Morocco started with the hosts in red-hot form. Captain Ghizlane Chebbak ignited the home crowd with a clinical strike in the 12th minute, and Sanaâ Mssoudy doubled the lead in the 24th, leaving Nigeria to a 2–0 gap.
But the Super Falcons, known for their relentless spirit, refused to back down. The second half saw Nigeria transform into a force of determination. In the 64th minute, Esther Okoronkwo calmly placed home a penalty, motivating the team to fight back. Just seven minutes later, Folashade Florence Ijamilusi unleashed a breathtaking equalizer, balancing the score at 2–2 and sending a surge of belief through the Nigerian squad.
Nigeria’s relentless pressure paid off. In the 88th minute, substitute Jennifer Echegini delivered the decisive blow, pouncing on a perfectly placed free kick from Okoronkwo to score the winning goal. The final whistle sparked wild celebrations among players and fans over a hard-fought victory.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, whose leadership stands out throughout the tournament, was named Player of the Tournament, while Chiamaka Nnadozie, Africa’s premier goalkeeper for two consecutive years, earned the Goalkeeper of the Tournament award for her remarkable performances.
This victory not only avenged Nigeria’s 2022 loss but also extended their flawless record of never losing a WAFCON final.
