WAFCON 2024: Nigeria's remarkable comeback triumphs over Morocco for the 10th African title

The hosts shocked everyone with a two-goal lead in the first half, but the Super Falcons roared back after halftime with goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Jennifer Echegini to clinch a thrilling victory.

Justine Madugu’s team started the match strongly, but despite their early offensive efforts, they failed to take the lead as Morocco’s defense remained solid and prevented any significant breakthroughs.

However, it was the Atlas Lionesses who scored first in the 12th minute, when Ghizlane Chebbak capitalized on a poor clearance from Halimatu Ayinde and curled a spectacular long-range shot past goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.

Cheered on by a roaring home crowd at Rabat’s Olympic Stadium, Morocco increased their lead in the 24th minute through Sanaa Mssoudy, taking advantage of a moment of disorganized defending from the West Africans.

Nevertheless, Nigeria put forth an impressive second-half display to complete their comeback. They scored one back just four minutes after the hour mark from the penalty spot, after VAR determined that Nouhaila Benzina had handled the ball in the area.

The comeback was finalized seven minutes later when Ijamilusi tapped the ball into an empty net after being expertly set up by Okoronkwo.

The Super Falcons took charge, dominating every aspect of the game until Jorge Vilda’s side received a lifeline in the 78th minute when referee Antsino Twanyanyukwa awarded a penalty against Oluwatosin Demehin after Imane Saoud’s cross struck her hand.

Unfortunately, the VAR review overturned the call, determining that the defender’s hand was in a natural position.

With just two minutes left, Echegini scored the winner from a perfectly executed free-kick by Okoronkwo, sealing Nigeria’s ‘Mission X’ and leaving the home team in despair.

During the awards ceremony, South Africa was honored with the Fair Play Award, while Chebbak received the top scorer accolade with five goals. Nigeria’s goalkeeper Nnadozie was recognized as the Best Goalkeeper, and captain Rasheedat Ajibade was named Player of the Tournament.