The 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) culminated in a dramatic finale on Saturday, as Nigeria’s Super Falcons staged a spectacular comeback from two goals down to triumph over hosts Morocco with a 3-2 victory. This unforgettable showdown in Rabat not only sealed Nigeria’s record-extending 10th WAFCON title but also reaffirmed their undisputed dominance as the most successful women’s team on the African continent.
The final, held at Rabat’s Stade Olympique, saw a spirited Moroccan side, buoyed by their home crowd, take a surprising early lead. Captain Ghizlane Chebbak and winger Sanaâ Mssoudy found the back of the net within the first half hour, igniting hopes that Morocco could become only the fourth nation to claim the continental title. However, Nigeria, true to their legendary 'Super Falcons' moniker, showcased remarkable resilience. Esther Okoronkwo and Folashade Ijamilusi spearheaded the fightback, levelling the score before substitute Jennifer Echegini delivered the decisive blow with an 88th-minute winner that stunned the home supporters.
This victory is not just about the trophy; it carries significant financial reward. The Super Falcons proudly picked up a $1 million prize money, a sum that has been impressively doubled since the last edition, reflecting a growing investment in women's football by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Nigeria also became the first side to lift the new-look WAFCON trophy, a symbol of the tournament's expanding prominence and the rising standards of women's football across Africa. This substantial increase in prize money underscores CAF's commitment to enhancing player, coach, and staff remuneration, further legitimizing women's football careers on the continent.
The growth of WAFCON has been notable in recent years, expanding from eight teams to twelve since the 2022 edition and witnessing a significant spike in attendance and viewership, indicating a burgeoning interest in the women's game.
Meanwhile, in Friday’s keenly contested third-place playoff in Casablanca, Ghana emerged victorious over the defending champions, South Africa, after a tense 1-1 draw led to a penalty shootout. Nonhlanhla Mthandi’s fine strike gave Banyana Banyana an early lead, but Ghana swiftly responded in the 68th minute through an unfortunate deflection off South Africa’s goalkeeper Andile Dlamini after a header from Alice Kusi.
The closing moments of regular time were fraught with tension, as Linda Motlhalo was denied by Ghana’s astute goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan, who then became the undisputed hero of the shootout. Konlan saved two crucial South Africa penalties, leading Ghana to a 4-3 victory. This win secured Ghana their first top-three finish at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations since 2016, marking a triumphant return to the podium.
