The mood is charged. The drums of hope are beating loud once again as Nigeria’s Super Falcons touch down in Rabat, Morocco — ready for one last dance in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024.
From Lagos to Rabat, the journey has been tough, thrilling, and at times nerve-wracking. But now, Justine Madugu’s fearless squad is just one step away from glory. The final match against tournament hosts Morocco is set for this Friday at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
For the Super Falcons — already nine-time African champions — this is more than just another final. It’s a chance to reclaim their crown after missing out in 2022. Nigeria’s women have long dominated African football, and the current team seems determined to remind everyone why.
The Falcons earned their place in the final after a spirited 2-1 victory over South Africa’s Banyana Banyana in the semi-finals. That game was a proper test of grit and tactics, but Nigeria stood tall, showing the kind of resilience that has become their trademark.
Their opponents, Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses, got to the final after a dramatic penalty shootout win over Ghana’s Black Queens — 4-2 it ended, with plenty of drama and near misses. As hosts, the Lionesses will no doubt have the home crowd roaring behind them, but the Super Falcons are used to pressure. In fact, they often thrive in it.
The team has now set up camp in Rabat and will begin training this evening at the FUS Académie. The first 15 minutes of the session will be open to the media — enough time for journalists to catch glimpses of warm-ups, tactical talks, and maybe even a few cheeky nutmegs.
On Friday, training will go behind closed doors. No distractions. Just focus.
From captain Rasheedat Ajibade’s commanding presence in midfield, to the electric pace of Asisat Oshoala up front, fans are expecting fireworks. And knowing Nigerian footballers, there might just be some dancing too — depending on how Friday ends.
Back home, Nigerians are already glued to their screens. From football lovers in Abuja, to street-side viewers in Onitsha, and even the market women in Ibadan who shout “Goaaal!” like they’re calling their children, the nation is behind the Falcons.
And yes, Nigerians are hopeful. Because if there’s one thing the Super Falcons have taught us over the years, it’s this: when they play with heart, they fly high. And with the finals in sight, it looks like they’re ready to soar again.
So, will it be a tenth title for Nigeria or a first-ever for Morocco?
We’ll find out under the Rabat floodlights. But one thing is sure — it’s going to be a match to remember.
Let the drums roll, let the jollof stay warm. Friday night, we watch history unfold.
