As the Super Falcons of Nigeria file out onto the pitch this Saturday at the Stade Olympique in Rabat, history will be firmly within their sights. The 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final pits the nine-time champions against hosts Morocco; a team hungry for their first continental crown.

For Nigeria, this final represents more than a shot at glory; it is the culmination of a campaign aptly dubbed “Mission X” a determined pursuit of a record-extending 10th WAFCON title. It is a legacy steeped in dominance and built on years of consistency, and now, only one hurdle remains; the Atlas Lionesses of Morocco.

Clash of Experience and Ambition

This final isn’t just a football match, it’s a clash between African women’s football royalty and a rising powerhouse.

The Super Falcons are the most successful team in the history of WAFCON. Out of 13 finals appearances, they have claimed the trophy nine times. Their pedigree on the continent is unmatched, with regular appearances at the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Olympic Games solidifying their global status.

In contrast, Morocco’s recent rise has been nothing short of meteoric. Before hosting the 2022 edition of WAFCON, the North African nation had never made a serious impact in women’s football. But that year, they finished as runners-up and qualified for their maiden World Cup in 2023 a feat that galvanized interest and investment in the women’s game across the kingdom.

Now, back in the final on home soil, Morocco have a second chance to lift their first-ever WAFCON trophy. And with an unbeaten run so far in the tournament, they pose a formidable threat.

Both teams took different but equally gritty paths to reach the final.

Nigeria edged defending champions South Africa 2-1 in the semi-final a match that stretched nerves and demanded late heroics, with the winning goal coming in the 94th minute. That win avenged their 2022 semi-final heartbreak against Morocco, where the Super Falcons lost 5-4 on penalties after finishing the game with nine players.

For Morocco, their semi-final against Ghana’s Black Queens went the distance. After a 1-1 stalemate in regular and extra time, the hosts held their nerve to win 4-2 on penalties and book a second straight final appearance.

Players to Watch

Nigeria will rely on a blend of youth, experience, and raw talent to push them over the line.

Leading the charge is captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who has picked up three Woman of the Match awards in five matches. Her pace, creativity, and leadership have been pivotal to Nigeria’s run so far.

Also drawing attention is Esther Okoronkwo, one of the breakout stars of the tournament and the current assist leader. She, alongside seasoned campaigners like Osinachi Ohale and Halimatu Ayinde, has kept Nigeria solid and compact conceding just one goal all tournament.

But Morocco aren’t lacking in firepower either. Ghizlane Chebbak, the tournament’s leading scorer with four goals, will be the biggest threat to Nigeria’s defence. She is ably supported by Yasmin Mrabet, with the pair scoring seven of Morocco’s 11 goals. However, their defensive vulnerabilities having conceded in every game so far remain a concern.

Historically, Nigeria have had the upper hand in meetings with Morocco. The Super Falcons thrashed the Atlas Lionesses 8-0 in 1998 and 6-0 in 2000.

But the tables began to turn in 2022 when a rejuvenated Moroccan side, backed by a fervent home crowd, stunned the Super Falcons in the semi-final knocking them out on penalties. That result marked a seismic shift and a new era for women’s football in the North African nation.

Saturday’s clash, therefore, carries emotional weight, a shot at redemption for Nigeria, and a chance for Morocco to confirm their transformation with silverware.

For Nigeria, a win on Saturday would be historic the 10th continental title, firmly cementing their legacy as Africa’s undisputed queens of football.

For Morocco, victory would be a dream come true a crowning moment that would reward their investment in women’s football and inspire a new generation of players across North Africa.

Either way, the 2024 WAFCON final promises to be an electrifying encounter. The eyes of the continent and indeed, the world will be fixed on Rabat, where giants clash and history beckons.