The Super Falcons staged a remarkable comeback from a two-goal deficit at halftime to secure a 3-2 victory over Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria faced off against the host nation Morocco at the Stade Olympique de Rabat in the WAFCON final.
Given the high level of football displayed by both teams throughout the tournament, an exciting match was anticipated, and they certainly delivered.
Morocco enjoyed strong support from their home crowd, who turned out in large numbers to cheer for their team, bringing along laser lights that posed challenges for the Super Falcons.
Nigeria struggled to find their rhythm early on, allowing the Atlas Lionesses to capitalize on their slow start.
Under the guidance of Jorge Vilda, Morocco applied high pressure, making it difficult for Nigeria to transition from defense to offense.
The pressure quickly paid off when Ghizlane Chebbak scored the first goal in the 13th minute.
Following a defensive error from Nigeria, she received the ball just outside the penalty area and unleashed a powerful shot past goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie into the net.
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Before the Super Falcons could regroup, Morocco struck again. Sanaa Mssoudy outmaneuvered Michelle Alozie on the left side of Nigeria’s box and fired a low shot into the bottom corner, extending the lead to 2-0 after just 24 minutes.
The Super Falcons gradually found their footing and sought to reduce the deficit before halftime.
However, Morocco’s defense proved to be strong and resolute, preventing Nigeria from making significant progress.
Justin Madugu’s strategy of playing long balls for the forwards to chase was ineffective, as the Atlas Lionesses anticipated this tactic and effectively countered it.
In the second half, the Super Falcons adjusted their approach, opting to play more on the ground.