By Frank Ulom
LAGOS (CONVERSEER) – Nigeria’s senior women’s football team, the Super Falcons, have won the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) trophy, earning a record $1 million following a thrilling 3-2 victory over Morocco in the final.
The Falcons came from two goals down to secure their 10th continental crown, courtesy of goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi and a late strike from Joe Echegini.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) had doubled the prize money for the champions ahead of the tournament, increasing it from $500,000 to $1 million, while the overall prize pot rose by 45 per cent to $3.475 million.
Nigeria Sweeps Individual Awards
The Super Falcons also dominated individual accolades at the tournament. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade was named the Most Valuable Player, while Chiamaka Nnadozie emerged as Goalkeeper of the Tournament. Coach Justine Madugu won the Coach of the Tournament award, highlighting Nigeria’s technical and tactical dominance.
Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak won the Golden Boot with five goals, while South Africa received the Fair Play Award for exemplary sportsmanship.
Tinubu Hails Historic Victory
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, congratulated the team, describing the achievement as a testament to their resilience and the indomitable Nigerian spirit.
“I celebrate you, our beautiful and lovely Super Falcons, for the landmark victory of your 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations championship. Your resounding 3-2 victory is indeed remarkable and commendable,” she said in a statement.
“It is not just another trophy; it is a testament to your hard work, consistency, and the indomitable Nigerian spirit. We thank God for this sweet victory. You have once again lifted the pride of our dear nation, Nigeria and cemented your place as Queens of African football.”
Senator Tinubu added that the victory would inspire millions of women and girls across Africa, saying the Super Falcons have “written their names in gold.”
With the title win and increased prize money, the Super Falcons have once again demonstrated their dominance in African women’s football, further cementing their status as the most successful team on the continent.
2024 WAFCON Prize
- Winner: $1,000,000
- Runner up: $500,000
- Third place: $350,000
- Fourth place: $300,000
- Quarter-finalists (4 Teams): $200,000 for each Team
- 3rd of the group: $150,000
- 4th of the group (3 Teams): $125,000 for each Team
2024 WAFCON Awards
- Most Valuable Player (MVP): Rasheedat Ajibade (Nigeria)
- Best Goalkeeper: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria)
- Golden Boot: Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco) – 5 goals
- Coach of the tournament: Justin Madugu (Nigeria)
- Fair Play Award: South Africa
