Super Falcons of Nigeria will square off against host nation Morocco in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) a match that offers both sides a chance to settle old scores and etch their names in history.
The highly anticipated clash, set for Saturday, July 26 at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, sees Nigeria seeking redemption for their 2022 heartbreak, while Morocco eye a maiden continental title in front of their home crowd.
Nigeria, the most decorated team in African women’s football, are gunning for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
Their last triumph came in 2018, and after a disappointing semi-final exit to Morocco in 2022 a match marred by two red cards the Super Falcons are determined to reclaim their crown.
For Morocco, this final represents uncharted territory. Backed by passionate home fans and riding a wave of belief, they aim to make history by lifting their first WAFCON title on home soil.
The Journey to the Final
Justin Madugu’s side have been tactically sound and mentally resilient. Topping Group B with seven points, they brushed aside Tunisia (3-0), edged Botswana (1-0), and drew 0-0 with Algeria.
Osinachi Ohale celebrating Super Falcons first goal against Zambia in 2024 Wafcon quarter finals. Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
They then thrashed Zambia 5-0 in the quarter-finals before securing a dramatic 2-1 win over reigning champions South Africa, courtesy of Michelle Alozie’s stoppage-time winner.
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Morocco opened with a pulsating 2-2 draw against Zambia, then dispatched DR Congo 4-2, with Ghizlane Chebbak scoring a hat-trick, and edged Senegal 1-0 to win Group A.
Sakina Ouzraoui celebrating her equaliser for Morocco against Ghana. Photo Credit: CAF
They overcame Mali 3-1 in the quarter-finals before surviving a nerve-wracking 1-1 semi-final against Ghana, which they won 4-2 on penalties, thanks to goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi’s heroics.
Tactical Duel: Defence vs Dynamism
Nigeria boast the tournament’s best defence just one goal conceded all tournament, and that came from the penalty spot.
With a solid backline of Alozie, Ohale, Demehin, and Plumptre, and a midfield engine room led by Ayinde and Ajibade, they offer structure and balance.
In contrast, Morocco thrive on attacking flair. Coach Jorge Vilda has built a team that presses high, plays wide, and scores freely.
However, their defence remains a concern six goals conceded and only one clean sheet.
Head-to-Head: Revenge or Repeat?
Nigeria lead the all-time WAFCON series with dominant wins in 1998 (8-0) and 2000 (6-0). But their last encounter in 2022 changed the narrative. Morocco held Nigeria 1-1 and won 5-4 on penalties to reach their first-ever final.
Now, three years later, Nigeria have their chance at redemption while Morocco seek to prove 2022 was no fluke.
Key Players
Rasheedat Ajibade (Nigeria)
The Super Falcons captain has been a leader in every sense with three Woman of the Match awards and 2 assists and 1 goal.
Rasheedat Ajibade. Photo Credit: X
Her creativity and work rate drive the team forward.
Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco)
At 34, she remains the heartbeat of the Atlas Lionesses. The joint top scorer of the tournament with four goals, her experience and eye for goal make her a major threat.
Final Word
Morocco’s attacking firepower and home support will pose problems, but Nigeria’s experience in finals and defensive structure may prove decisive.
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Expect a tight encounter with the Super Falcons edging it for their 10th continental crown.
