WAFCON 2025: Nigerians in South Africa Hail Super Falcons.

RABAT, MOROCCO ~ In what will be remembered as one of the most thrilling finals in the history of women’s football on the African continent, Nigeria’s senior women’s national team, the Super Falcons pulled off a stunning comeback to defeat Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses 3-2 and lift their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.

Trailing by two goals in the first half and facing a roaring home crowd in Rabat, the Falcons embodied resilience, spirit and determination; qualities that have long defined Nigerian excellence in sport. Their triumphant feat, dubbed “Mission X” by fans and commentators, has sparked jubilation across Nigeria and among diaspora communities worldwide.

In South Africa, members of the Nigerian community under the auspices of the Nigeria Union South Africa (NUSA), joined the global celebration by issuing a congratulatory message to the team, commending their strength of character and the unyielding Nigerian spirit they displayed.

“The Super Falcons were composed, focused and determined to win the game. It’s not easy for a team to come from two goals down and win, especially against a host nation,” said Smart Nwobi, a lawyer and President of NUSA, in an official statement issued in Johannesburg on Sunday 27th of July.

The July 25 final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium was a clash of titans. Morocco, as host nation and finalists from the previous edition, were seen as favorites on home turf. They struck early with two goals that put the Falcons on the back foot and raised questions about whether Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football had finally met its match; As always, the Super Falcons responded not with fear, but with fury.

Led by star forward Asisat Oshoala, midfield dynamo Christy Ucheibe and the ever-reliable Onome Ebi, the Nigerian side gradually clawed their way back into the game. Uchenna Kanu’s volley opened the comeback before Rasheedat Ajibade netted the equalizer. Substitute Ifeoma Onumonu later buried the winner, sending the entire stadium into stunned silence, except for a pocket of proud Nigerian supporters.

This was more than a football match. It was a demonstration of tenacity, national pride and the never-say-die attitude that has become synonymous with the Nigerian identity.

In cities like Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban and Cape Town, members of the Nigerian community gathered in pubs, viewing centers and homes to watch the final. Celebrations erupted after the final whistle, with fans waving green-white-green flags, singing old football chants and even performing traditional dances in open spaces.

For many, this wasn’t just a football victory, it was a unifying moment that rekindled national pride in a time of widespread economic and political challenges back home.

“We join Nigerians across the world to congratulate the Super Falcons for this historic feat,” NUSA President Smart Nwobi added. “Winning the 10th title proves that Nigeria remains the gold standard in African women’s football.”

Nwobi urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) not to rest on its laurels, emphasizing that preparation for title defense should begin immediately.

“The standard of women’s football in Africa has improved significantly. Countries like Morocco, Zambia and South Africa are investing heavily. This implies that opposition will be stronger in future tournaments,” he warned.

Interestingly, the NUSA President also extended congratulations to South Africa’s Banyana Banyana, who finished fourth in the tournament and were awarded the Fair Play Trophy.

“We salute Banyana Banyana for their discipline and sportsmanship. Despite not reaching the final, they played quality football and upheld the spirit of the game,” Nwobi noted.

Banyana Banyana have consistently proven themselves as Nigeria’s fiercest rivals in recent years, winning the 2022 edition of WAFCON and challenging Nigeria’s supremacy in women’s football.

Nigeria’s 2025 WAFCON victory has come at a crucial time. Amid soaring inflation, insecurity, youth unemployment and social unrest, this moment of national triumph offered a rare occasion for collective joy. The Super Falcons reminded Nigerians that even when the odds seem impossible, victory is always within reach. This tournament was also a showcase of Nigeria’s depth of talent. The Falcons fielded a younger team, integrating new talents such as Esther Okoronkwo, Rofiat Imran and Deborah Abiodun, who brought pace and freshness to the squad. Their performance demonstrated that the next generation is ready to carry the legacy forward. Nigeria’s performance shows what can be achieved with unity and purpose.

“This victory is symbolic. It tells us that when we fight together as a team and believe in our strength, we can overcome any odds. That’s a lesson the whole nation must learn, not just in football but in governance, industry, and civic life,” Nwobi added.

While fans celebrate, football stakeholders must begin the work of consolidating this achievement. There is a clear need for improved investment in women’s football development both at grassroots and professional levels. The Falcons’ consistent success masks the systemic neglect they face. From poor training facilities and inadequate pay to travel and accommodation issues, the players have continually pushed forward in spite of these challenges. Nigeria owes them more. The diaspora community, particularly influential groups like NUSA, has a key role to play. Through partnerships, sponsorships and advocacy, they can support female athletes and influence policy change back home.

“Let this victory be a wake-up call. Let it motivate us to demand better treatment and support for our athletes. If they can bring us pride and unity, the least we can do is empower them,” Nwobi concluded.

With this 10th title, the Super Falcons have once again asserted Nigeria’s position as Africa’s football powerhouse. But beyond the medals and trophies, they have given a nation (and its scattered sons and daughters) a reason to believe again. They have reminded us of who we are: a people that rise from adversity, defy the odds, and shine when it matters most.

From Rabat to Lagos, from Abuja to Johannesburg, one message rings clear: Nigeria is still the giant of Africa and our women just proved it again.