The Nigerian women’s national team staged a remarkable second-half revival to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final on Saturday, July 26, 2025.
This victory at Rabat’s Olympic Stadium secured Nigeria’s unprecedented 10th continental title in a match destined for African football folklore.
Morocco dominated the first half, with captain Ghizlane Chebbak opening the scoring in the 13th minute. Sanaâ Mssoudy doubled the lead twelve minutes later, sending the Atlas Lionesses into halftime with a commanding 2-0 advantage before a fervent home crowd. Nigeria’s championship aspirations appeared critically threatened.
The Super Falcons transformed the match after the interval, however. Esther Okoronkwo ignited the comeback by converting a 64th-minute penalty, reducing Morocco’s lead to 2-1.
Momentum shifted decisively towards Nigeria. Folashade Ijamilusi equalized in the 71st minute, capitalizing on a goalmouth scramble to level the score at 2-2. The comeback reached its climax two minutes from full time. Midfielder Jennifer Echegini secured the trophy with a powerful strike from the edge of the penalty area, sealing the 3-2 victory. The final whistle triggered celebrations as Nigeria lifted the newly unveiled WAFCON trophy, becoming its first ever recipients.
Confederation of African Football (CAF) introduced the new silverware to symbolize a renewed commitment to women’s football. Nigeria received a $1,000,000 champions’ prize, reflecting this elevated status. The triumph extends Nigeria’s record as Africa’s dominant women’s football nation, overcoming emerging challengers like Morocco and South Africa to reaffirm their continental supremacy under immense pressure.
