In the summer of 2025, Nigeria's Super Falcons were trailing by two goals in a packed stadium in Rabat, Morocco. The home crowd was roaring. Victory seemed slipping away. Then Esther Okoronkwo stepped up. She scored from the penalty spot, set up another goal, and sparked one of the greatest turnarounds in African football history. Nigeria came back to win 3-2, clinching their 10th Women's Africa Cup of Nations title — a record that seemed untouchable. Now, they're going for number 11.
The Super Falcons are Africa's dominant force in women's football. Since the very first tournament in 1991, they have won more titles than any other nation on the continent. Their streak was briefly interrupted when Equatorial Guinea won in 2008 and 2012, and South Africa claimed victory in 2022. But every time, Nigeria bounced back. This kind of staying power — spanning more than three decades — is rare in any sport.
"The energy, the hunger, the fight in every single one of my teammates reminded me exactly why I believe in this team," said captain Rasheedat Ajibade in a recent post. "We are coming with everything we've got to build upon our previous successes."
This year, 16 nations are competing in Morocco for the WAFCON trophy. The tournament is not just about pride — it's also a path to the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil. For smaller football nations, it represents a chance to step onto the world stage.
While Nigeria remains the team to beat, rivals are closing the gap. South Africa's Banyana Banyana won the title in 2022, defeating Nigeria along the way, and are hungry for another crown. Morocco, the host nation, fell just short in that dramatic 2025 final and will be desperate for revenge on home soil. Zambia, Ghana, and Cameroon have all been investing in their women's programs and could spring surprises.
Yet Nigeria enters with a squad full of talent. Asisat Oshoala brings decades of experience. Michelle Alozie anchors the defense. Esther Okoronkwo, the heroine of the comeback in Rabat, is in top form. The challenge this time is steeper than ever, but so is the opportunity.
An 11th title would cement the Super Falcons as the undisputed queens of African football — and remind the world that some dynasties are built to last.