The Super Falcons of Nigeria have etched their name in history, clinching their record-extending 10th Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over host nation Morocco in the 2025 final. This triumph, often dubbed 'Mission X,' was a testament to the team's resilience, talent, and an unyielding Nigerian spirit, captivating fans and drawing widespread acclaim from across the nation.

The final, held at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat on July 26, 2025, unfolded with unexpected tension as Morocco, playing in front of their home fans, raced to a 2-0 lead in the first half with goals from Ghiziane Chebbak in the 13th minute and Sanaa Mssoudy in the 24th minute. The Super Falcons faced not only a two-goal deficit but also a hostile atmosphere, including Moroccan fans employing laser lights targeting Nigerian players, notably star forward Esther Okoronkwo. However, coach Justin Madugu's tactical changes in the second half, including substitutions like Rinsola Babajide and Jennifer Echegini, revitalized the team's attack. Okoronkwo initiated the comeback by converting a penalty in the 64th minute. She then assisted Folashade Ijamilusi for the equalizer in the 71st minute and, in a decisive moment, set up Jennifer Echegini for the match-winning goal in the 88th minute, sealing the historic 3-2 victory.

Following the monumental win, reactions poured in from prominent figures. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu extended his heartfelt congratulations, describing the victory as a reminder of 'what can happen when talent, discipline, and belief come together' and hailing it as a 'flawless 10 out of 10 performance.' First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu also praised the team, highlighting their resilience and the 'indomitable Nigerian spirit,' affirming their status as 'Queens of African football' and ambassadors of Nigerian excellence. Both leaders underscored the pride the Super Falcons brought to the nation.

The victory also resonated deeply within the Nigerian football community. Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau expressed confidence that the Super Falcons' success would fuel the men's national team, the Super Eagles, in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. Gusau, visibly emotional, lauded the team's 'resilience, doggedness, patriotism, and the blatant display of the well-known Nigerian spirit,' believing their example could inspire a mindset shift for the Super Eagles as they prepare for crucial matches against Rwanda and South Africa in September 2025.

Individual players also shared their perspectives. Michelle Alozie, a Super Falcons defender, playfully trolled Moroccan supporters post-match, stating on Snapchat, 'Their lasers didn’t work,' perfectly capturing the team's composure amidst distractions. Legendary striker Asisat Oshoala credited teammates Oluwatosin Demehin and Deborah Abiodun for their crucial roles in her WAFCON journey, posting 'Love them scatter. Can’t tell my Mission X story without these two.' Coach Justin Madugu's astute leadership, including his second-half substitutions, was lauded as pivotal, contrasting with the initial perceived tactical advantage of Morocco's coach Jorge Vilda.

Beyond the immediate celebrations, the victory sparked broader discussions about the recognition of women's football. Football analyst and Pulse Sports Nigeria’s managing editor, Joba, challenged FIFA to overhaul its women's ranking system, arguing that Nigeria, despite being ranked 36th globally (and top in Africa), is unequivocally better than 35 other teams in the world after their unbeaten run and 10th continental title. This call reflects a growing sentiment that the current Elo-based system does not adequately reward breakthrough performances or regional dominance, failing to capture emerging power shifts in the women’s game.

The celebration extended to the players' families, with a heartwarming video showing the fathers of Ashleigh Plumptre and Omorinsola Babajide, both instrumental in the campaign, sharing a light-hearted moment after the team's official reception in Abuja. Both players, born and raised in the UK, chose to represent Nigeria, further deepening their connection to their roots. As a testament to their national glory, the Super Falcons players received national honours, including the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), substantial cash rewards, and three-bedroom houses from the Federal Government.

This 10th WAFCON title is not merely a victory but a legacy moment, prompting calls to immortalize the women who paved the way for this 'La Decima.' From the pioneers of Nigeria's first women’s national team in 1991 to the current squad, their contributions across 34 years deserve lasting recognition through monuments, statues, and Hall of Fame tributes. The Super Falcons' continued dominance solidifies their place as African champions, inspiring millions and cementing a rich tradition of Nigerian football excellence.