In a gripping finale to the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), Nigeria’s Super Falcons pulled off a remarkable comeback to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 and clinch a record-extending 10th continental title on Saturday in Rabat.

The final, held at the fully packed Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, saw the Atlas Lionesses take early control. Captain Ghizlane Chebbak opened scoring in the 13th minute with a curling long-range effort, and Sanaâ Mssoudy doubled Morocco’s lead in the 23rd, leaving the Falcons with a mountain to climb.

But the tide turned in the second half. A handball in the box by Nouhaila Benzina led to a VAR-reviewed penalty, which Esther Okoronkwo converted in the 64th minute to bring Nigeria back into the game. Just seven minutes later, she turned provider, assisting Folashade Ijamilusi, who slotted in the equaliser.

The winning moment came in the 88th minute, when substitute Jennifer Echegini scored from the center of the box after a well-placed free-kick from Okoronkwo, sealing the 3-2 comeback victory.

The Falcons, who were eliminated by Morocco in the semifinals of the 2022 edition, returned the favor in dramatic fashion and retained their perfect record in WAFCON finals.

Despite late efforts and tactical changes from the hosts, Nigeria’s defense stood firm until the final whistle.

President Bola Tinubu hailed the team’s resilience and triumph in a celebratory post on X (formerly Twitter), writing:

“They chose to accept this mission. They understood the assignment. Our Superior Super Falcons delivered in true Naija fashion. Never say Never. They went. They saw. They have conquered again! 10-time champions of Africa. #MissionX: COMPLETE!”

The historic win not only reaffirmed Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football but also secured their place in the next FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers.

With their blend of grit, talent, and tactical brilliance, the Super Falcons once again reminded the continent why they are Africa’s most successful women’s football team.