Super Falcons make history with 10th WAFCON title in thrilling Mission X victory!
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The Super Falcons of Nigeria have etched their name in history, clinching a record-extending 10th Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory against host nation Morocco in the 2025 final. The thrilling showdown at the Stade Olympique in Rabat saw Nigeria overcome a two-goal deficit, showcasing exceptional resilience and the indomitable Nigerian spirit.
The final match was a nail-biting affair. Morocco took an early lead with goals from Ghiziane Chebbak in the 13th minute and Sanaa Mssoudy in the 24th minute, leaving the Super Falcons trailing 2-0 at halftime. Adding to the hostile atmosphere, Moroccan fans employed a controversial tactic, shining laser lights onto Nigerian players, notably targeting star forward Esther Okoronkwo's eyes. However, Nigeria's interim head coach, Justin Madugu, made pivotal second-half substitutions, bringing in Rinsola Babajide and Jennifer Echegini, which injected much-needed speed into the attack. The comeback began in the 64th minute when Esther Okoronkwo successfully converted a penalty. She then assisted the equalizer in the 71st minute, finding Folashade Ijamilusi. With the game tied, 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. The Super Falcons held on to seal their historic victory, completing 'Mission X'.
The monumental win ignited nationwide celebrations and garnered widespread praise. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu wholeheartedly congratulated the team, stating, "This win is a reminder of what can happen when talent, discipline, and belief come together." He lauded their "flawless 10 out of 10 performance," expressing immense pride in how they showcased "the strength and spirit of Nigerian football." First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, also extended heartfelt congratulations, praising the team's resilience, hard work, consistency, and their role as "ambassadors of Nigerian excellence." She affirmed that the trophy was not just another title but a testament to their enduring spirit, cementing their place as "Queens of African football."
Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau highlighted the victory's broader implications, expressing confidence that it would "fuel the men’s national team as they fight to resurrect their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign." Gusau, visibly emotional, hailed the win as symbolic of the Nigerian spirit, stating, “Our girls rose from the ‘dead,’ as they say, and fought to victory. This was an extraordinary performance.” He hoped this example of resilience would trigger a mindset shift for the Super Eagles as they prepare for crucial World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa in September.
Players also celebrated the triumph in their own unique ways. Defender Michelle Alozie, after enduring the laser light distraction during the match, took to Snapchat with a witty post-match troll, sharing a video with Esther Okoronkwo and the cheeky caption: “Their lasers didn’t work.” This showcased the team’s unshakable composure. Legendary striker Asisat Oshoala, reflecting on her WAFCON journey, credited teammates Oluwatosin Demehin and Deborah Abiodun for their crucial roles, posting, "Can’t tell my Mission X story without these two."
The victory was not only a test of the players' skill but also a tactical battle between Nigeria's interim coach Edwin Madugu and Morocco’s Jorge Vilda. Despite early criticism following Morocco's lead, Madugu's second-half adjustments, which saw Nigeria press harder, cut off wing play, and control the midfield, proved decisive. His substitutions clicked, leading to the dramatic turnaround. Beyond the immediate triumph, this victory is also a legacy moment, prompting calls for lasting recognition of the women who paved the way for this 10th WAFCON title. These pioneers, from the first national team in 1991 to the current squad, deserve tributes like monuments, statues, and Hall of Fame inductions for shattering barriers for generations of Nigerian girls and women. The players themselves received national honors, including the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), cash rewards, and three-bedroom houses from the Federal Government.
Even off the pitch, the pride was palpable, with fathers of stars like Ashleigh Plumptre and Omorinsola Babajide seen sharing joyful moments after the official reception in Abuja, symbolizing the deep connection and pride their daughters brought to the nation. This historic 3-2 comeback victory not only secured the WAFCON title but also reaffirmed the Super Falcons' status as African champions, inspiring millions across the continent and demonstrating the enduring strength of Nigerian football.
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