Super Falcons Eye Tenth WAFCON Crown as They Brace for Final Battle Against Hosts Morocco

Head coach Justine Madugu believes the Super Falcons are well-positioned to reclaim their dominance in African women’s football as they gear up for a high-stakes showdown against host nation Morocco in the final of the 13th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Saturday.

The Nigerian squad landed in Rabat on Wednesday and held their first training session the following day, adjusting swiftly to the new environment after playing their last five matches at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. With momentum on their side, the nine-time champions are determined to bring the trophy back home.

Their semi-final clash saw the Falcons edge out reigning champions South Africa 1-0, courtesy of a decisive late goal from defender Michelle Alozie. Morocco, on the other hand, secured their spot in the final after a tense penalty shootout win (4-2) over Ghana, following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

“We give thanks to God for taking us this far,” said Coach Madugu in an interview with NFF Media. “We’re not slowing down. The job isn’t done yet. Our strategy has been simple, study our opponents and play to our strengths. It worked against South Africa, and it’ll guide us again in the final.”

Saturday’s match at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat has been billed as a continental classic, the established giants of African football against a rapidly rising Moroccan side. The last time both sides met in the 2022 semi-finals, Nigeria suffered two red cards before bowing out on penalties. This time, with an 11-1 goal tally and standout performances, including from top scorer Chiwendu Ihezuo, the Falcons are out to rewrite the script.

Victory would mark Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title, maintaining their unbroken record in finals since the tournament’s inception in 1998 and reaffirm their place at the summit of African women’s football.