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Super Falcons Dominate: Historic 10th WAFCON Title Sparks National Pride and 'Mission X' Buzz

Published 6 hours ago3 minute read
Uche Emeka
Uche Emeka
Super Falcons Dominate: Historic 10th WAFCON Title Sparks National Pride and 'Mission X' Buzz

The Super Falcons of Nigeria achieved a historic milestone by clinching their record-extending 10th Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory against host nation Morocco in the 2024 final. The thrilling showdown at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat saw Nigeria overcome a two-goal deficit, showcasing immense resilience and the indomitable Nigerian spirit.

The final match against Morocco proved to be a test of mental fortitude. Morocco, playing in front of their home fans, took an early lead with Ghiziane Chebbak scoring in the 13th minute, followed by Sanaa Mssoudy extending their advantage in the 24th minute. The hosts went into halftime with a comfortable two-goal cushion. However, the Super Falcons, spurred by tactical changes from head coach Justin Madugu—who introduced Rinsola Babajide and Jennifer Echegini—staged a spectacular second-half resurgence. Esther Okoronkwo initiated the comeback by converting a penalty in the 64th minute. Just seven minutes later, Okoronkwo provided an assist for Folashade Ijamilusi, who netted the equalizer in the 71st minute. With the game tied, five-time CAF Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala was brought on to close out the game, and Okoronkwo once again proved decisive, setting up Jennifer Echegini for the match-winning goal in the 88th minute. The Super Falcons held on to seal their remarkable triumph.

The victory was not without its controversies. Moroccan fans notably employed laser lights, shining them onto Nigerian players, especially Esther Okoronkwo, throughout the tense final. However, the team's focus remained unshaken. Defender Michelle Alozie humorously addressed this post-match on Snapchat, posting a celebratory video with Okoronkwo captioned, “Their lasers didn’t work,” perfectly encapsulating the team's winning spirit and composure under pressure. Legendary striker Asisat Oshoala also took to Instagram to acknowledge the crucial contributions of teammates Oluwatosin Demehin and Deborah Abiodun, stating she couldn't tell her “Mission X” story without them.

The historic win sparked widespread celebration and commendation across Nigeria. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was among the first to congratulate the team, stating, “This win is a reminder of what can happen when talent, discipline, and belief come together,” and celebrating their “flawless 10 out of 10 performance.” First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu also extended heartfelt congratulations, praising the team's resilience and calling them “ambassadors of Nigerian excellence.” She emphasized that the trophy was “a testament to your hard work, consistency, and the indomitable Nigerian spirit,” which has “lifted the pride of our dear nation.”

Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau expressed deep emotion and pride, hailing the victory as symbolic of the Nigerian spirit. He congratulated the team for their “resilience, doggedness, patriotism, and the blatant display of the well-known Nigerian spirit.” Gusau further expressed confidence that the Super Falcons' success would ignite the Super Eagles' ambition for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, urging the men's team to draw inspiration from the Falcons' comeback, stressing that “it is never over until it is over.”

The triumph led to significant national recognition for the players. Ashleigh Plumptre and Omorinsola Babajide, both instrumental in the campaign, were among those who received national honours, including the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), individual cash rewards of $100,000, and a three-bedroom house each from the Federal Government. A heartwarming moment captured on camera showed the proud fathers of Plumptre and Babajide sharing a light-hearted exchange during the team's official reception in Abuja, symbolizing the collective joy and pride felt across the nation for the daughters who brought glory to Nigeria. The Super Falcons' “Mission X” was indeed completed in spectacular fashion, cementing their legacy as Queens of African football.

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