Nigeria’s Super Falcons staged a stunning comeback to defeat hosts Morocco 3–2 in the WAFCON final, clinching their 10th continental title.
The Falcons were trailing 2–0 at half‑time, but they rallied behind an inspired performance from Esther Okoronkwo, who scored the first goal and provided assists for the second and third through Folashade Ijamilusi and Jennifer Echegini.
Morocco raced into a commanding lead inside the opening 25 minutes. Ghizlane Chebbak struck in the 13th minute, followed by Sanaa Mssoudy doubling the advantage in the 24th minute. Nigeria, seemingly rattled, entered the break facing a daunting deficit.
Just as the second half began, Nigeria refused to give in. Esther Okoronkwo coolly converted a penalty in the 64th minute to halve the deficit. Seven minutes later, Folashade Ijamilusi nodded in Nigeria’s equaliser after powerful build-up play. Then, late in the half, Jennifer Echegini produced the decisive finish to complete the improbable comeback. Nigeria held firm until the final whistle to claim a fifth title on foreign soil.
Nigeria entered the tournament under the “Mission X” banner—aiming to reclaim continental supremacy and secure their 10th title. After topping Group B with wins over Tunisia, Botswana and a draw with Algeria, they crushed Zambia 5‑0 in the quarterfinals and edged South Africa 2‑1 in the semis with a stoppage‑time winner.
Okoronkwo’s tournament was a revelation: she emerged as Nigeria’s talisman—driving momentum with her set-piece deliveries and scoring. ESPN hails her as the player’s pivotal spark.
CAF unveiled a redesigned trophy for WAFCON in early July 2025—a golden football blossoming within petals that symbolize African nations.
Alongside the historic hardware, Nigeria brought home US $1 million in prize money, a 100% increase from the previous edition, as part of CAF’s broader 45% boost in total prize funds.
For Morocco, this is the second time they will be defeated in a final. They reach the final in 2022 where they lost to South Africa. Hopefully, this heartbreak will transform into promise in the future.
