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Super Falcons Return Home to Hero’s Welcome After Historic WAFCON Triumph

Nigeria’s Super Falcons on Monday returned to a rousing welcome in Abuja, days after clinching their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in Morocco.

The African champions arrived aboard a chartered flight at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport around 2:26 p.m., where an enthusiastic crowd of supporters and top government officials had gathered to receive them.

Leading the federal government delegation were the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris; the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; and the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim.

The airport reception marked the beginning of nationwide celebrations for the Super Falcons, who will now parade the WAFCON trophy in an open-top bus through the streets of Abuja. Their victory tour will end at the Presidential Villa, where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to host the team in recognition of their remarkable feat.

A Championship for the History Books

The Super Falcons secured their 10th continental title in dramatic fashion on Saturday night, defeating host nation Morocco 3–2 in a thrilling final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

The Nigerians staged one of the greatest comebacks in WAFCON history, rallying from two goals down to snatch victory and silence the home crowd.

Morocco had taken an early lead in the 13th minute when top scorer Ghizlane Chebbak capitalized on a loose ball and fired past Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. The pressure increased in the 28th minute when Sanaa Mssoudy added a second with a low strike into the bottom corner.

With the Falcons trailing 2–0 at halftime, hopes for a Nigerian comeback seemed slim. But the team returned for the second half with renewed intensity and tactical discipline.

Their persistence paid off in the 63rd minute after a cross from Ijamilusi struck the arm of Morocco’s Nesryne El Chad Benzina, resulting in a penalty. Chinwendu Okoronkwo converted confidently to reduce the deficit.

Moments later, Okoronkwo turned provider, breaking down the flank and setting up Ijamilusi, who slotted home the equalizer in the 71st minute.

The dramatic winner came in the 88th minute when a deep free-kick found Jennifer Echegini in the box. The midfielder stretched out a toe to tap in from close range and complete a stunning turnaround.

Saturday’s victory adds another glorious chapter to the legacy of the Super Falcons, who have dominated women’s football in Africa for decades. Their latest triumph comes amid growing competition across the continent, making this 10th title all the more significant.

Coach Randy Waldrum praised the team’s mental strength and unity, saying: “We never lost belief. These women showed the heart of champions and they made Nigeria proud.”

The historic comeback has sparked celebrations across Nigeria, with tributes pouring in from political leaders, football fans, and sports enthusiasts alike. Social media has also been flooded with praise for the team’s determination and fighting spirit.

President Tinubu is expected to officially receive the team and announce national honours or rewards for their victory.

As the Falcons bask in their latest glory, their comeback in Rabat will be remembered for years to come not just as a win, but as a testament to Nigerian resilience, unity, and the enduring power of women’s football.

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