Video: Super Falcons complete stunning second-half comeback to win historic 10th WAFCON title

Abdullateef Fowewe

In a remarkable display of resilience and determination, Nigeria’s Super Falcons staged an electrifying second-half turnaround to clinch their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.

Video link: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMScNcqdx/

Trailing 2-0 at halftime against host nation Morocco at the Stade Olympique in Rabat on Saturday night, the Falcons ignited a breathtaking comeback to win 3-2 in front of a passionate home crowd.

Morocco took an early lead with goals from Ghizlane Chebbak in the 12th minute and Sanaâ Mssoudy in the 24th, seemingly setting the stage for a historic home victory.

However, whatever motivational tactics coach Justin Madugu employed during the break transformed the Super Falcons into a relentless force.

Esther Okoronkwo sparked the revival by converting a penalty after a Moroccan handball just after the hour mark.

She followed that by assisting Folashade Ijamilusi for the equaliser in the 71st minute, leveling the score 2-2 and silencing the Moroccan fans.

The drama peaked when substitute Jennifer Echegini delivered the winner in the 88th minute, slotting home a half-volley from Okoronkwo’s perfectly weighted free-kick to seal a remarkable comeback and Nigerian triumph.

This thrilling victory not only showcased the Super Falcons’ trademark grit and heart but also solidified their dominance as the queens of African women’s football with their 10th continental crown—the most by any nation in WAFCON history.

The win also earned them $1 million in prize money and the brand-new WAFCON trophy.

Earlier in the tournament, the Super Falcons upset defending champions South Africa 2-1 in the semifinals thanks to a late goal from defender Michelle Alozie, overcoming a tough challenge to advance to the final.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade’s penalty opened the scoring in that semifinal, with Linda Motlhalo’s second-half spot-kick equalizing for South Africa before Alozie’s stoppage-time winner.