Morocco, Super Falcons to Showcase African Football Artistry at WAFCON Final

By Otunba Dele Ologbese

The beauty of African football will be on full display tonight at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, as the host nation, the Atlas Lionesses, face off against the Super Falcons of Nigeria in the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) at 8 PM Nigerian time.

Morocco is aiming to lift the prestigious trophy for the first time in history, while Nigeria, the most successful team in the competition’s history, is eyeing a record-extending tenth title. The Super Falcons have played in nine previous WAFCON final and won them all, solidifying their dominance in women’s football on the continent. This year, under the mission tagged WAFCON X, Nigeria seeks to reclaim the title after losing it to South Africa in 2022.

It is worth noting that Morocco has made huge investments in women’s football over the last four years. Hosting back-to-back WAFCON tournaments and securing the rights to host the 2026 edition reflects the country’s serious commitments to growing the sport both in Africa and globally.

Morocco’s sporting ambition is not just limited to hosting; the country has poured substantial resources into modern sports infrastructures, including renovations and constructions of world-class stadiums. The Olympic Stadium in Rabat, venue of tonight’s final, is a stunning example. In contrast, Nigeria continues to struggle with poor or underdeveloped sports facilities, which remains a concern for its sporting future.

Tonight’s clash promises to be electrifying, intense, and tightly contested, a true battle between two of Africa’s finest women’s teams. Both sides are leaving no stone unturned in their quest for continental glory.

In the 2022 edition, Morocco defeated Nigeria in a controversial semi-final match where two Super Falcons players were sent off, reducing the team to nine. That painful defeat remains fresh, and tonight, Nigeria is determined to take its revenge and reclaim the crown.

The Super Falcons, however, will have to contend not only with a talented Moroccan side but also with the intimidating home crowd. Reports suggest some fans may use laser lights to distract Nigerian players, a practice CAF has since banned. Additionally, concerns linger over possible officiating bias, particularly with Namibian referee Antsino Twanyanyukwa in charge, especially following the exit of defending champions South Africa in the semi-finals

Both nations boast a rich mix of seasoned veterans and dynamic young talents eager to make their mark on the big stage.

Morocco, under the guidance of world-class coach Jorge Vilda—who famously led Spain to a FIFA Women’s World Cup title in 2023, will take no chances. Vilda’s side will rely on the experience of captain Ghizlane Chebbak, the pace and creativity of winger Fatima Tagnaout, and the clinical finishing of forward Rosella Ayane

Nigeria, on the other hand, has come to Rabat with vengeance and victory in mind. The Super Falcons’ lineup includes the formidable goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, who has yet to concede a goal in the tournament, as well as seasoned defenders Ohale and Plumptre. The midfield and attack are anchored by stars like Ajibade, Ayinde, Oshoala, Ihezuo, Echegini, Demehin, and rising talent Ijamilusi—all of whom are committed to doing the nation proud.

As the final whistle approaches, all eyes will be on Rabat, where African football’s finest will battle not just for a trophy but for pride, history, and the heart of a continent.

We hope and pray that Nigeria conquers Morocco tonight in Rabat.