By King Eze
In one of the most dramatic and emotionally charged finals in African football history, Nigeria’s Super Falcons were crowned champions of Africa for a record 10th time, coming from behind to defeat host nation Morocco 3-2 in the final of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
This historic triumph, watched by millions across the globe, not only reaffirms Nigeria’s supremacy in women’s football on the continent but also highlights the team’s resilience and fighting spirit.
A Final Full of Twists: Morocco Strike Early:
The hosts stunned the Super Falcons early with a lightning start. In the 11th minute, Moroccan striker Sanaa Mssoudy capitalized on a defensive error to slot home the opener, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. Things got worse for Nigeria when Ghizlane Chebbak, Morocco’s star midfielder, added a second goal in the 34th minute with a long-range screamer that beat goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.
With Nigeria trailing 2–0 by halftime, many feared that the Falcons’ dominance was coming to an end. But what followed was a remarkable second-half comeback that will go down in African football folklore.
Nigeria’s Comeback: Spirit of Champions:
Nigeria’s resurgence began just after the restart when forward Rasheedat Ajibade was brought down in the box, earning a penalty in the 48th minute. Ajibade calmly converted the spot kick to make it 2–1, reigniting hopes of a comeback.
In the 66th minute, Nigeria drew level through Esther Okoronkwo, who curled a stunning effort from the edge of the box, silencing the Moroccan fans and shifting the momentum completely.
The comeback was completed in the 78th minute when substitute Chinwendu Ihezuo latched onto a low cross from Toni Payne, firing home the winner and sealing a 3–2 victory for the Super Falcons.
Key Match Statistics:
Full-Time Score: Nigeria 3 – 2 Morocco
Goal Scorers:
Morocco: Sanaa Mssoudy (11’), Ghizlane Chebbak (34’)
Nigeria: Rasheedat Ajibade (48’ PEN), Esther Okoronkwo (66’), Chinwendu Ihezuo (78’)
Shots on Target: Nigeria 9 – 6 Morocco
Ball Possession: Nigeria 54% – 46% Morocco
Fouls Committed: Nigeria 12 – 9 Morocco
Corners: Nigeria 6 – 4 Morocco
A Record-Breaking Legacy:
This victory marks Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title (1991, 1995, 1998, 2000, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2025), making them the most successful team in African women’s football history. In contrast, Morocco, who were finalists for the second time after finishing as runners-up in 2022, continue to close the gap with impressive performances and growing investments in women’s football.
A Rivalry Renewed:
The Nigeria–Morocco rivalry has grown rapidly in recent years. In the 2022 WAFCON semi-final, Morocco eliminated Nigeria on penalties after a 1-1 draw, but this time, the Falcons turned the tables in Rabat. The final was more than a football match, it was a statement of pride, power, and perseverance.
National and Continental Reactions:
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led the nation in celebrating the Super Falcons, calling the team “heroes and trailblazers.” He pledged continued support and development for women’s sports.
Sports Minister John Owan Enoh announced plans to reward the players with national honors and financial bonuses. “They’ve not only won a trophy, they’ve won the heart of Africa,” he said.
The Road Ahead
With the 2025 WAFCON behind them, Nigeria now sets its sights on the 2026 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers, where they will aim to translate continental dominance into global impact.
For now, the continent celebrates a game for the ages and the rise of a new generation of Super Falcons who wear the crown with pride and promise.
