WAFCON Final Preview: Nigeria vs. Morocco - A Clash of Eras
The 2024 TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) culminates today, Saturday, July 26, 2025, in a highly anticipated final at the Stade Olympique in Rabat, Morocco. It's a showdown steeped in history and ambition, as nine-time champions Nigeria take on the host nation Morocco, who are eyeing their first-ever WAFCON title.
The Road to the Final
Nigeria, the undisputed queens of African women's football, have navigated their way to a record 10th final appearance with a blend of tactical discipline and attacking depth. They have conceded just one goal in five matches – a penalty in their dramatic 2-1 semi-final victory over reigning champions South Africa. Their 11 goals have come from eight different scorers, showcasing a balanced and efficient attack. Coach Justin Madugu's side, with experienced stalwarts like Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, and captain Rasheedat Ajibade (who has been crucial in both creation and scoring), appears to be peaking at the right time. Even without a significant goal contribution from the legendary Asisat Oshoala, who is set to retire from international duty after this tournament, Nigeria has shown their formidable collective strength.
Morocco, on the other hand, represents the meteoric rise of women's football in North Africa. The Atlas Lionesses, under the guidance of Jorge Vilda, have captivated the continent with their fluid attack and resilience. They topped their group and overcame Ghana in a grueling semi-final, winning 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Morocco's journey has been marked by thrilling comebacks, including against Zambia in their opener and Ghana in the semi-final. Led by captain Ghizlane Chebbak, who is also one of the tournament's top scorers, and dynamic midfielder Yasmin Mrabet, Morocco has scored a joint-high 11 goals in the tournament. However, they've also shown some defensive vulnerabilities, conceding six goals and keeping just one clean sheet, which Nigeria will undoubtedly look to exploit.
A Rematch with Higher Stakes
This final is a highly charged rematch of the 2022 WAFCON semi-final, where Morocco famously stunned Nigeria on penalties after a dramatic 1-1 draw. That night, with the Super Falcons reduced to nine players, marked a turning point for Moroccan women's football, propelling them to their first-ever final. Now, with the trophy on the line and a passionate home crowd behind them, Morocco has the chance to complete their historical quest for continental glory.
For Nigeria, "Mission X" – securing their unprecedented 10th WAFCON title – is firmly in sight. They have never lost a WAFCON final they've contested, a testament to their big-game mentality. The Super Falcons will be looking to reassert their dominance and settle the score from two years ago.
Key Players to Watch
Morocco: Ghizlane Chebbak (Captain and key scorer), Yasmin Mrabet (Midfield engine), Sakina Ouzraoui (Creativity and width).
Nigeria: Rasheedat Ajibade (Captain, creator, and scorer), Chiamaka Nnadozie (Commanding goalkeeper), and the overall defensive solidity provided by players like Michelle Alozie and Osinachi Ohale. Keep an eye on the impact of Asisat Oshoala in what could be her final international appearance.
Tactical Battle
The final promises a fascinating tactical battle. Vilda's Morocco is known for its structured build-up, pressing, and midfield control. Madugu's Nigeria, on the other hand, employs a more energetic and direct style, leveraging the speed and physicality of their players. The team that can impose its game plan and capitalize on the opponent's weaknesses will likely emerge victorious.
As the sun sets over Rabat, the stage is set for a historic night. Will Nigeria extend their unparalleled legacy, or will Morocco write a new chapter in African women's football history on home soil? All eyes will be on the Stade Olympique as the WAFCON 2024 champion is crowned.
