By Victor Kanayo
Nigeria on Saturday night reclaimed continental dominance by winning 10th Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in a dramatic comeback fashion after beating host nation 3-2 in a nervy final at Rabat.
The victory comes after the Nigerian side also known as the Super Falcons failed to clinch the continent’s most prize soccer diadem in the past edition.
Empty Handed South Africans
Incidentally, South Africa who won it in 2022 are returning home empty handed this time around after their team finished fourth.
Their below performance in this tournament was finally characterised by Ghana that eventually won the third place match and bronze medal on Friday.
The South African team settled for the best losers game after Nigera walloped them semi-final stage.
Back To Final Boiling Point
The Moroccans took control early in the final of 2024 edition, racing to a 2-0 lead in the first half.
However, the Falcons emerged stronger after the break, showing grit and determination to turn the game around.
Esther Okoronkwo kickstarted the comeback with a well-taken penalty before turning provider for Folashade Ijamilusi, who made it 2-2.
With just minutes left on the clock, Jennifer Echegini rose highest to connect with a free-kick and head in the dramatic winner.
In triumphing, Super Falcons led by history-making Coach Justin Madugu lifted the new WAFCON trophy unveiled by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) just before the kick-off of the tournament.
