Super Falcons Crowned WAFCON Champions, Receive Hero's Welcome and National Honors
Nigeria's senior women's national football team, the Super Falcons, are enjoying widespread national adulation following their historic triumph at the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). They secured their record-extending 10th WAFCON title with a thrilling victory over host nation Morocco in the final match.
The Historic Victory against Morocco:
Final Match: The Super Falcons faced the Atlas Lionesses of Morocco in the WAFCON 2024 final on Saturday, July 26, 2025, in Rabat, Morocco.
Dramatic Comeback: Nigeria clinched the title with a remarkable 3-2 comeback victory. Despite Morocco taking a commanding 2-0 lead in the first half, the Super Falcons displayed incredible second-half resilience.
Second-Half Resilience: Goals from Esther Okoronkwo (from a penalty), Folashade Ijamilusi, and a decisive late winner by Jennifer Echegini in the 88th minute completed the stunning turnaround, silencing the partisan Moroccan crowd.
Key Players: Esther Okoronkwo was particularly instrumental in the comeback, scoring Nigeria's first goal and contributing significantly to the others.
"Mission X": The team had reportedly named their quest for a 10th title "Mission X," a mission they successfully accomplished.
Hero's Welcome and National Celebrations:
Arrival in Abuja: The victorious Super Falcons arrived back in Abuja, Nigeria's capital, on Monday, July 28, 2025, to a rapturous welcome. They were greeted by excited fans and top officials from the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
Trophy Parade: To celebrate their monumental achievement, the team embarked on a grand trophy parade across major districts of the Federal Capital Territory. This allowed countless Nigerians to share in their joy and catch a glimpse of the coveted WAFCON trophy, with the parade route encompassing significant areas like Airport Road, Berger Junction, Maitama, and Wuse Market.
Presidential Reception and Honors: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu hosted the Super Falcons and their technical crew at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. During the reception, President Tinubu:
Conferred National Honours: Awarded national honours (Officer of the Order of the Niger, OON) to all 24 players and the 11-member technical team.
Cash Rewards: Approved a cash award of the naira equivalent of $100,000 to each of the 24 players, and $50,000 equivalent to each technical team member. (Note: The Nigeria Governors' Forum also announced an additional N10 million for each player and official).
Housing Allocation: Directed the allocation of one three-bedroom apartment to each player and technical crew member in the government's Renewed Hope Housing Scheme.
Inspirational Impact: President Tinubu commended the team for their courage, determination, discipline, and consistency, emphasizing that their victory was "more than a sporting accomplishment" and served as an inspiration to millions, especially young girls. The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, also praised them as role models.
Continued Celebrations: Beyond the official reception, further celebrations were anticipated, including a live concert at the Eagles Square in Abuja, with the possibility of being hosted in Lagos as well.
Tournament Recognition: In addition to the team's triumph, four Nigerian players – Rasheedat Ajibade (who also won Player of the Tournament), Chiamaka Nnadozie (Best Goalkeeper), Michelle Alozie, and Esther Okoronkwo – were named in CAF's Team of the Tournament, further highlighting individual excellence.
This victory not only solidified Nigeria's dominance in African women's football but also served as a powerful symbol of national unity and inspiration for the entire country.
