By Esther Ososanya
As the countdown begins to Friday’s high-stakes clash at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, Nigeria’s Super Falcons have set their sights squarely on a singular goal of lifting the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) trophy and reclaiming their dominance on the continent.
Speaking exclusively after the team’s thrilling 2-1 semi-final victory over reigning champions South Africa, head coach Justine Madugu said his players are laser-focused on completing their redemption arc, and nothing less than the title will suffice.
“We thank God for making it to the final. But we’re not going to relent or take our eyes off the ball. Our focus is on lifting the trophy in Rabat,” Madugu said.
Grudge Match: Morocco vs Nigeria
The final promises to be a dramatic rematch. Morocco edged Nigeria 5-4 on penalties in the 2022 semi-final, dashing Nigeria’s title hopes and sparking nationwide disappointment.
That painful exit is still fresh in the minds of fans and players — and Madugu believes it is fuelling the team’s determination this year.
Friday’s game marks the fourth WAFCON finals meeting between both nations. Nigeria won the first two, but Morocco’s 2022 victory on home soil raised the stakes for this year’s encounter.
Unfinished Business
Despite being nine-time WAFCON champions, Nigeria heads into this final with a point to prove. The Falcons’ path to the final has been nothing short of resilient, dominating group stages and overcoming a spirited Banyana Banyana in a semi-final many viewed as a clash of titans.
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Madugu, who has steadied the ship since taking over coaching duties, said the team understands the weight of expectation from millions of Nigerians and supporters across the continent.
“The journey isn’t over. We are preparing with total commitment because we want to finish the job and make the country proud,” he added.
The Super Falcons will face Morocco on Friday, July 26, at 8 p.m. local time in Rabat. All eyes will be on the Olympic Stadium as Nigeria seeks to secure its 10th WAFCON title and reclaim its status as the undisputed queen of African women’s football.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
