WAFCON 2024 Final

In a thrilling climax to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 that took place in Morocco in 2025, Nigeria overcame hosts Morocco in a dramatic 3‑2 comeback finish at Rabat's Stade Olympique securing their record extending tenth WAFCON crown.

Match Recap: Nigeria 3–2 Morocco

• First Half: Morocco seized the initiative early, with Ghizlane Chebbak opening the scoring, then doubled their lead through Sanaa Mssoudy. Nigeria went into halftime trailing 2‑0, under mounting pressure in front of a passionate home crowd.
  

• Second Half Turnaround: Nigeria mounted a spectacular comeback scoring three unanswered goals to turn the tide. Their resilience and tactical adjustments paid off as they turned what seemed a bleak situation into a triumphant victory.

Stories Behind the Final

Nigeria – “Mission X” Accomplished:
Back on a mission after a disappointing fourth place in 2022, the Super Falcons showcased experience and depth throughout the tournament. Led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade Crowded Turthy Player of the Tournament they were defensively disciplined and scoring came from a wide variety of squad members. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie earned the golden gloves for her standout performances.

Morocco – Heartbreak at Home:
The Atlas Lionesses, playing before their home fans in Rabat, were on the brink of history as the first North African nation to lift the WAFCON trophy. Their journey featured flair and grit including a semifinal win over Ghana on penalties but despite their strong home support and early lead in the final, they fell just short.

Tournament Highlights & Awards

• Player of the Tournament: Rasheedat Ajibade (Nigeria)

• Best Goalkeeper: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria)

• Third Place: Ghana beat South Africa 4‑3 in penalties after a 1‑1 draw.

Legacy & Impact

Nigeria’s dominance continues they remain undefeated in all their WAFCON finals and now boast ten continental titles. Morocco, meanwhile, reinforced its rapid rise in women's football, having reached back-to back finals and captured the imagination of fans across North Africa.

This tournament also highlighted broader challenges facing women’s football in Africa such as infrastructure gaps, inconsistent funding and the need for better youth development systems.

Looking Ahead

• Nigeria: With this milestone win, the Super Falcons reaffirmed their status as Africa's women's football powerhouse. Their blend of leadership, depth, and international experience sets the bar for future challengers.

• Morocco: Despite the final heartbreak, their performance promises more to come with strong home support and coordinated federation backing, they are well positioned for continued growth.

The 13th edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations will be remembered for its drama, resilience, and narrative defying comeback proving once again that in football, matches aren’t over until the final whistle.