The Super Falcons of Nigeria, fresh off their triumphant victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), are set to receive a hero’s welcome upon their return to Abuja, the nation’s capital. President Bola Tinubu will personally host the team at the Presidential Villa, a testament to the significance of their achievement. This reception is just one element of a larger series of planned events designed to celebrate the team’s remarkable feat, their tenth continental title, reaffirming Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football. The team’s arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport will be marked by the presence of dignitaries including Governors Uba Sani (Kaduna State), AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara State), and Hope Uzodimma (Imo State), as well as several federal ministers, underscoring the national importance of this victory.
The Super Falcons’ success has ignited nationwide celebrations, with Nigerians from all walks of life expressing their admiration and pride. The team’s journey through the tournament was marked by resilience, discipline, and an unwavering determination to succeed, qualities that resonated deeply with the Nigerian public. Their performance in the final against host nation Morocco, the Atlas Lionesses, was a thrilling display of skill and grit, culminating in a hard-fought victory that secured their place at the top of African women’s football. This victory serves as a powerful symbol of national pride and a testament to the potential of Nigerian women in sports.
Adding to the individual accolades, four key players of the Super Falcons – Rasheedat Ajibade, Esther Okoronkwo, Michelle Alozie, and Chiamaka Nnadozie – have been named to the prestigious Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Best XI. This recognition further highlights their individual brilliance and the collective strength of the Nigerian team. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced the tournament’s standout performers, acknowledging their crucial roles in shaping the competition. This selection, based on their exceptional performances throughout the tournament, underscores the significant impact these players had on Nigeria’s success.
Rasheedat Ajibade’s exceptional contributions throughout the tournament earned her the coveted Player of the Tournament award. Her attacking prowess and leadership qualities were instrumental in driving the team forward. The Atletico Madrid forward’s performance was consistently outstanding, earning her the Woman of the Match award in three of Nigeria’s six games, a clear indication of her dominant presence on the field. Ajibade’s skill and determination were evident in every match, inspiring her teammates and captivating fans with her dynamic play.
Esther Okoronkwo, with her impressive tally of two goals and four assists, played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s title run. Her attacking contributions provided crucial breakthroughs and set up scoring opportunities for her teammates, demonstrating her versatility and effectiveness in the offensive line. Okoronkwo’s ability to create chances and find the back of the net herself was a consistent threat to opposing defenses. Her performance throughout the tournament solidified her reputation as a key player within the Super Falcons’ squad.
Chiamaka Nnadozie, the Super Falcons’ goalkeeper, earned the title of Best Goalkeeper after consistently delivering outstanding performances, including four clean sheets throughout the tournament. Her shot-stopping abilities and command of the defense provided a crucial foundation for the team’s success, earning her recognition as one of the continent’s top goalkeepers. Nnadozie’s confidence and composure in goal provided a reassuring presence for the team, allowing them to focus on their attacking strategies.
Defender Michelle Alozie’s unwavering commitment was evident in her participation in every minute of Nigeria’s campaign, a testament to her stamina and resilience. Her crucial contributions, most notably the late winning goal against South Africa in the semi-final, etched her name into the tournament’s highlights. This decisive moment not only secured Nigeria’s place in the final but also became one of the most memorable moments of the entire competition, demonstrating Alozie’s ability to perform under pressure. Her consistent performance throughout the tournament solidified her place in the Best XI. Alozie’s inclusion in the Best XI recognizes her dedication and impactful contributions to the team’s success.
