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Nigeria's Super Falcons Reign Supreme: WAFCON Champions Spark Jubilation & Debate

Published 1 week ago3 minute read
Uche Emeka
Uche Emeka
Nigeria's Super Falcons Reign Supreme: WAFCON Champions Spark Jubilation & Debate

The Super Falcons of Nigeria made history by clinching their record-extending 10th Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title, completing what they termed "Mission X." Their triumph came after a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory against the host nation, Morocco, in a thrilling final held at the Stade Olympique in Rabat.

The final match was a testament to the Nigerian spirit, as the Super Falcons overcame a significant challenge. Morocco took an early lead with goals from Ghiziane Chebbak in the 13th minute and Sanaa Mssoudy in the 24th minute, leaving Nigeria trailing 2-0 at halftime. However, head coach Justin Madugu's strategic substitutions in the second half, bringing on players like Rinsola Babajide and Jennifer Echegini, injected new speed into the attack. Esther Okoronkwo initiated the comeback by converting a penalty in the 64th minute, and then provided the assist for Folashade Ijamilusi's equalizer in the 71st minute. With the score level, five-time CAF Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala was introduced, and Okoronkwo once again proved decisive, setting up Jennifer Echegini for the match-winning goal in the 88th minute. This remarkable turnaround secured Nigeria's 10th continental title.

The historic victory sparked nationwide celebrations, with prominent figures commending the team. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in a social media post, congratulated the Super Falcons, highlighting the win as a reminder of "what can happen when talent, discipline, and belief come together." He praised their "flawless 10 out of 10 performance." Similarly, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu extended heartfelt congratulations, celebrating the team's "resilience," "hard work, consistency, and the indomitable Nigerian spirit." She affirmed that the Falcons had "lifted the pride of our dear nation" and cemented their place as "Queens of African football."

Beyond the official commendations, team members also shared their unique perspectives on the victory. Defender Michelle Alozie humorously trolled Moroccan supporters, who had used laser lights to distract Nigerian players during the match, with a cheeky Snapchat post featuring herself and Esther Okoronkwo celebrating captioned: "Their lasers didn’t work." This showcased the team's composure amidst a hostile environment. Striker Asisat Oshoala credited teammates Oluwatosin Demehin and Deborah Abiodun, stating she "can’t tell my Mission X story without these two," acknowledging their crucial contributions.

The Super Falcons' dominant performance has also ignited broader discussions within Nigerian football. Ibrahim Gusau, President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), expressed confidence that the WAFCON victory would "fuel the men’s national team as they fight to resurrect their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign." He emphasized the "resilience, doggedness, patriotism, and the blatant display of the well-known Nigerian spirit" shown by the Falcons, urging the Super Eagles to emulate this mindset in their upcoming qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa.

Moreover, the victory has reignited calls for a reevaluation of the FIFA Women’s World Ranking system. Football analyst Joba, managing editor of Pulse Sports Nigeria, publicly challenged FIFA, arguing that Nigeria's current rank of 36th globally (despite being Africa's top team and 10-time WAFCON champions) does not accurately reflect their strength. He questioned if "35 teams in the world that are better than the @NGSuper_Falcons," pointing out the system's slow adjustment to breakthrough performances and regional dominance. The debate continues on how best to measure and recognize the achievements of rising powers in women's football, with the next FIFA ranking release eagerly anticipated in early August 2025. The Super Falcons' historic 10th WAFCON triumph, achieved through remarkable resilience and skill, has solidified their status as continental giants and champions of Nigerian football.

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