The 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final delivered a thrilling spectacle as the Nigerian Super Falcons came from behind to beat the host nation Morocco, sealing their record-extending 10th continental title.
Played at the packed Olympic Stadium in Rabat, the match was a tense and dramatic contest between Africa’s most successful women’s football team and a rising Moroccan side eager to claim their first-ever WAFCON trophy. Morocco took an early lead but the Super Falcons showed resilience to overturn the deficit and emerge victorious.
Morocco started the match strongly, scoring two goals in the first half to take a surprising 2-0 lead over Nigeria despite having less possession.
The Atlas Lionesses were clinical in front of goal, with captain Ghizlane Chebbak and Ibtissam Jraidi showing why they are considered the driving forces of Moroccan women’s football.
They exploited their chances well while Nigeria dominated possession but failed to convert their opportunities in the first 45 minutes.
This was a significant statement from the home side, who have been investing heavily in women’s football development and were playing in their second consecutive final.
Despite the challenging start, the Super Falcons, led by coach Justin Madugu, demonstrated their trademark fighting spirit and experience.
This Nigerian team, dubbed ‘Mission X,’ was determined to reclaim the WAFCON crown they last won in 2018.
They increased their intensity in the second half, gradually breaking down Morocco’s defense with a balanced mix of youth and experience.
The team boasted diverse scoring options, with nine different players having scored in the tournament, highlighting their attacking depth.
As the match progressed, Nigeria’s persistence paid off. They clawed back into the game with a sequence of well-crafted plays, culminating in goals that shifted the momentum.
The Super Falcons’ ability to remain composed under pressure, coupled with tactical changes by their coach, allowed them to overturn the two-goal deficit and eventually win the final.
This comeback win not only extended their unbeaten streak in WAFCON finals but also reaffirmed their dominance in African women’s football.
Morocco, despite the heartbreak, showed remarkable progress and tactical discipline under Spanish coach Jorge Vilda, who brought experience from coaching the Spanish women’s national team.
Their rise to the final in consecutive tournaments signals a new era in African women’s football where emerging teams like Morocco can challenge established giants.
The Atlas Lionesses’ performance was a significant milestone for women’s football in Morocco and the continent, reflecting broader support and investment in the women’s game.
The final also showcased individual talents such as Nigeria’s goalkeeper Chaka Nadozie, who was rarely tested but remained focused when called upon, and players like Michelle Alozie and Rasheedat Ajibade, who contributed decisively throughout the tournament.
On Morocco’s side, the influence of seasoned players and tactical coherence under Vilda made the match competitive and entertaining until the very end.
In conclusion, the 2025 WAFCON final was not only a testament to Nigeria’s enduring legacy in women’s African football but also highlighted the rise of new challengers like Morocco.
The Super Falcons’ comeback victory underlined their resilience and experience, while Morocco’s impressive run and fightback in parts of the game bode well for the future competitiveness of the tournament.
This final will be remembered as a classic display of passion, determination, and high-quality football on the African continent.