Jennifer Echegini’s Late Strike Seals Stunning Comeback as Nigeria Win 10th WAFCON Title

2025 — Nigeria’s Super Falcons staged a remarkable comeback to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final, with substitute Jennifer Echegini netting a dramatic 88th-minute winner.

The win marked Nigeria’s record-extending 10th WAFCON title in 13 editions, confirming their continued dominance in African women’s football.

Historic Triumph in Rabat
Playing in front of a passionate crowd at the Stade Olympique, Morocco appeared poised to claim their first title after storming to a 2-0 lead within 24 minutes:

Ghizlane Chebbak opened the scoring with a stunning long-range effort in the 12th minute.

Sanaa Mssoudy doubled the advantage 12 minutes later, capitalizing on defensive lapses.

Despite having more possession, Nigeria only managed one shot on target in the first half.

Second-Half Turnaround
Nigeria launched a spirited second-half fightback:

In the 64th minute, Esther Okoronkwo converted a penalty after VAR confirmed a handball by Nouhaila Benzina.

Just seven minutes later, Okoronkwo set up Folashade Ijamilusi, who scored from close range to make it 2-2.

With two minutes left in regulation time, Okoronkwo delivered a precise free-kick that Echegini slotted home to complete the comeback.

Ghana Claim Bronze in Casablanca Thriller
On Friday, Ghana’s Black Queens secured third place by defeating defending champions South Africa 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.

South Africa took the lead via Nonhlanhla Mthandi after a goalkeeping error.

Ghana leveled in the 68th minute, courtesy of an own goal by South Africa’s Andile Dlamini after a header hit the bar.

19-year-old Nancy Amoh converted the decisive penalty.

This bronze marks Ghana’s fourth third-place finish, while South Africa have now lost four of five bronze matches in WAFCON history.