Nigeria completed a dramatic comeback to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final, sealing their 10th continental crown in unforgettable fashion.
Morocco looked on course for a historic first title after storming to a 2-0 lead inside 25 minutes. But Nigeria responded with heart, steel, and a touch of brilliance, as Jennifer Echegini’s 88th-minute strike capped a second-half turnaround for the ages.
The Super Falcons had entered the final seeking redemption. They hadn’t lifted the trophy since 2018. In front of a loud home crowd in Rabat, they had to dig deeper than ever before.
Ghizlane Chebbak gave Morocco the dream start, capitalising on a poor clearance to drill home in the 12th minute. Ten minutes later, Sanaa Mssoudy doubled the lead after another defensive lapse.
The stadium erupted as Morocco edged closer to their long-awaited first title. Nigeria, stunned, gathered in a huddle before kick-off resumed, clearly rattled but not beaten.
Esther Okoronkwo became the catalyst for the revival. She converted a penalty after a VAR review for handball. That goal cut the deficit and breathed life back into the champions.
With the momentum shifting, Nigeria’s substitutions made the difference. Babajide and Echegini added drive and protection to the flanks. Okoronkwo kept creating, this time sliding a perfect pass for Folashade Ijamilusi to level the score.
Morocco briefly thought they had a penalty of their own, but VAR overturned the call. That decision took the air out of the home support and set the stage for the final blow.
In the 88th minute, Okoronkwo’s looping free-kick evaded the Moroccan defence. Echegini ghosted in and tucked the ball home at the back post.
The Moroccan players fell to the turf. Fans left the Olympic Stadium in silence. It was heartbreak for the hosts, who had led with such promise.
Nigeria’s bench erupted in celebration. For coach Justin Madugu and his squad, this was more than a win, it was a statement. Mission X was complete.
