Super Falcons beat USA, Brazil to set new world record after WAFCON victory

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have set a new world record for the most continental titles in women’s football after a dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Morocco in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final.

The win in Rabat marked their 10th WAFCON crown and 12th continental title overall, surpassing the USA, Brazil, China, and New Zealand.

Backed by a lively home crowd, the Atlas Lionesses dominated the first half. Ghizlane Chebbak opened the scoring in the 13th minute after a defensive error from Nigeria, and Sanaa Mssoudy doubled Morocco’s lead in the 24th minute.

The Super Falcons struggled to create chances early on, with Morocco neutralising their long-ball tactics.

But the second half saw a shift in momentum after coach Justin Madugu introduced Jennifer Echegini and Rinsola Babajide.

In the 64th minute, Nigeria pulled one back through Okoronkwo’s penalty following a VAR-confirmed handball.

Just minutes later, Okoronkwo assisted Folashade Ijamilusi for the equaliser. With the game heading toward extra time, Echegini sealed the win in the 87th minute with a superb half-volley from an Okoronkwo freekick.

The win marks the first time a team has ever come from two goals down at halftime to win a WAFCON final.

More significantly, it elevates the Super Falcons to 12 continental titles, 10 WAFCONs, and two African Women’s Championships from 1991 and 1995.

This puts Nigeria ahead of the USA (10), New Zealand (11), Brazil (9), and China (9) in women’s football history, making them the most successful national team on any continent.