Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Super Falcons on winning the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), claiming a record-extending 10th title.
Nigeria staged a stunning comeback, beating the hosts, Morocco, 3-2 in a tense final in Rabat, Morocco.
The Falcons overcame a two-goal deficit to clinch their historic victory and equal their continental record.
Mr Bayo Onanuga, the Presidential Spokesperson, delivered the message in a statement shortly after the match on Saturday.
Tinubu hailed the victory as a symbol of resilience and national pride.
” The Super Falcons’ spectacular performance tonight in Rabat, coming from behind to beat a spirited Moroccan side playing in front of a passionate home crowd, exemplifies the determination that defines the Nigerian spirit.”
” With hard work, dedication, and tenacity, you have achieved the mission the nation dreamed of and prayed for.
“The nation looks forward to welcoming our champions. Congratulations! Nigeria celebrates you,” he said.
The President had earlier encouraged and pep-talked the team on his official X handle to go all out for victory.
” My beloved Super Falcons! Tonight, you stand at the cusp of history as you face the host nation, Morocco, in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.
” Your performance at this tournament over the past three weeks has been awe-inspiring. You have represented our country with pride, honour, and strength.
” In the pitch and off the pitch, you have demonstrated true sportsmanship,” the President said before the final.
The highly mobile Moroccan side struck early with goals from Ghizlane Chebbak and Sanaa Mssoudy in a dominant first half.
But the Super Falcons responded after the break, starting with a penalty converted by Esther Okoronkwo.
Okoronkwo later assisted Folashade Ijamilusi for the equaliser, shifting momentum in Nigeria’s favour.