The night of triumph was one for the ages, as Nigeria's Super Falcons scripted a thrilling comeback to clinch the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations title, defeating host Morocco 3-2 in a heart-stopping final.
The streets of Abuja and Lagos transformed into a sea of jubilation, with fans spilling onto the roads, dancing, and chanting "Super Falcons" till the wee hours of the morning.
Viewing centers and bars remained packed, with patrons cheering and screaming in delight as the final whistle blew. The euphoria was palpable, with people from all walks of life coming together to celebrate the team's historic victory.
As the match unfolded, Morocco's early dominance paid off with two goals in the first half.
Ghizlane Chebbak opened the scoring in the 12th minute, before Sanaa Msouddy doubled the lead in the 24th minute.
The Moroccan fans were ecstatic, believing their team was on the path to victory.
But the Super Falcons refused to give up, staging an epic comeback in the second half.
Esther Okoronkwo scored a penalty kick in the 66th minute, after a Moroccan defender handled the ball in the box.
The Nigerians were invigorated, and their efforts paid off again in the 71st minute when Folashade Ijamilusi scored the equalizer.
The momentum had shifted, and the Super Falcons were now in control.
The dramatic turn of events culminated in the 88th minute when Jennifer Echegini, a late substitute, scored the winning goal, sending the Nigerian fans into raptures. The team celebrated wildly, while the Moroccan players were left stunned and heartbroken.
The Super Falcons' victory marked their 10th WAFCON title, completing their "Mission X" campaign. The team's captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, was named the Most Valuable Player of the tournament, while goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie won the Best Goalkeeper award.
The win also earned Nigeria a $1 million prize money, and the team became the first to lift the new WAFCON trophy unveiled by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) before the tournament.
Post a Comment
0Comments