Casablanca, Morocco — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has applauded the Super Falcons’ historic victory in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), singling out Esther Okoronkwo’s 64th-minute penalty as a defining moment of courage and determination.
Nigeria staged an unforgettable second-half comeback to defeat tournament hosts Morocco 3-2 in a thrilling final at the Stade Olympique, Casablanca, on Saturday, July 26, 2025.
In a video call with the team after the final whistle, President Tinubu described Okoronkwo’s calmly taken penalty as a “very courageous exercise.” The 28-year-old forward responded humbly: “Thank you, sir.”
Super Falcons Stage Dramatic Comeback
The final began on a tense note, with Morocco capitalizing on early Nigerian errors to go 2-0 up within the first 24 minutes. Ghizlane Chebbak opened the scoring with a stunning shot from outside the box, followed by Sanaa Mssoudy’s composed finish to double the lead.
But Nigeria, the most successful team in WAFCON history, refused to back down.
Following a VAR review, a penalty was awarded to the Super Falcons after Folashade Ijamilusi’s cross struck the arm of Nouhaila Benzina. Okoronkwo confidently converted the spot kick, sending Moroccan goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi the wrong way.
That goal sparked a resurgence.
Just seven minutes later, Okoronkwo turned provider, setting up Ijamilusi for the equaliser with a precise pull-back. Then, in the 88th minute, substitute Jennifer Echegini netted the winner after connecting with a deep free kick to complete Nigeria’s stunning turnaround.
Record-Breaking Triumph
The victory secured Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title—the most by any nation in the tournament’s history—and reinforced the Super Falcons’ dominance on the continent.
President Tinubu, along with millions of Nigerians, celebrated the team’s resilience, composure, and fighting spirit.
Spotlight on Esther Okoronkwo
Born in Abia State and raised in Richmond, Texas, Esther Okoronkwo has become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s current generation. A former standout at Northeast Texas Eagles and Lamar Lady Cardinals, she has enjoyed a steady rise in club football across France, Spain, China, and Canada, where she currently plays for AFC Toronto in the Northern Super League.
Okoronkwo was deservedly named Woman of the Match in the final and earned widespread praise from fans and pundits on social media for her performance.
Oshoala Retirement Rumors Surface
Meanwhile, speculation has emerged surrounding the possible retirement of star forward Asisat Oshoala from international duty. While no official statement has been released, the Barcelona legend was reportedly considering stepping away from the national team following Nigeria’s WAFCON triumph.
