Super Falcons Make History: Nigeria Crowned WAFCON Champions for 10th Time in Thrilling Win!
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The Super Falcons of Nigeria achieved a historic milestone, clinching their record-extending 10th Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory against hosts Morocco. The final, widely referred to as "Mission X," unfolded at the Stade Olympique in Rabat, becoming a memorable classic known for its intense action and emotional depth.
The match began with challenges for Nigeria as Morocco quickly took a 2-0 lead. Ghiziane Chebbak opened the scoring in the 13th minute, followed by Sanaa Mssoudy in the 24th minute, igniting the home crowd. Despite this early deficit, the Super Falcons displayed remarkable resilience. Head coach Justin Madugu's tactical adjustments in the second half were crucial, as he introduced Rinsola Babajide and Jennifer Echegini to boost the team's offensive speed.
The comeback commenced in the 64th minute when Esther Okoronkwo successfully converted a penalty, narrowing Morocco's lead. Okoronkwo continued her outstanding performance, delivering the equalizer in the 71st minute to Folashade Ijamilusi. The decisive moment arrived in the 88th minute when Okoronkwo, once again, provided a pinpoint assist to Jennifer Echegini, who scored the match-winning goal, securing the 3-2 triumph and successfully completing "Mission X." Legendary striker Asisat Oshoala was also brought on to help solidify the team's position.
The victory triggered widespread celebrations across Nigeria, with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu among the first to extend his congratulations. In a heartfelt social media post, he commended the Super Falcons for their "well-deserved WAFCON victory," emphasizing that it served as "a reminder of what can happen when talent, discipline, and belief come together." He lauded their "flawless 10 out of 10 performance" for bringing immense pride to the nation.
Beyond the scoreline, the final was marked by an unconventional tactic from Moroccan fans who used laser lights to distract Nigerian players, notably targeting Esther Okoronkwo. However, this only strengthened the Super Falcons' resolve. Defender Michelle Alozie famously mocked these efforts in a post-match Snapchat video with Okoronkwo, featuring the cheeky caption: "Their lasers didn’t work," perfectly embodying the team's unyielding composure and winning spirit.
Several players garnered special recognition for their pivotal roles. Asisat Oshoala, reflecting on her WAFCON journey, credited teammates Oluwatosin Demehin and Deborah Abiodun, posting, "Love them scatter. Can’t tell my Mission X story without these two." Deborah Abiodun's commanding midfield presence was instrumental in the Super Falcons' success, leading to her early recall by Washington Spirit from her loan at Dallas Trinity. Washington Spirit interim general manager Nathan Minion highlighted her "impressive performances" for both club and country.
The triumphant return of the Super Falcons also saw fathers of stars like Ashleigh Plumptre and Omorinsola Babajide sharing proud moments, celebrating their daughters' crucial contributions to the campaign. Both Plumptre, a key defender, and Babajide, who marked her WAFCON debut with a goal and an assist in the group stage, were bestowed with national honours, including the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), cash rewards, and three-bedroom houses from the Federal Government.
This WAFCON victory transcends merely winning a trophy; it is a legacy moment that calls for honoring the women who paved the way for this 10th title. From Nigeria's inaugural women's national team in 1991 to the current squad, pioneers such as Eucharia Uche, Mercy Akide, and Perpetua Nkwocha, along with many others, deserve lasting recognition through monuments, statues, and Hall of Fame tributes. The Super Falcons' consistent reign continues to symbolize their enduring strength and spirit in Nigerian football.
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