Super Falcons smile to the bank, get N300Million for WAFCON quarterfinal spot

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have pocketed a guaranteed $200,000 (approximately N305 million at the current exchange rate) after sealing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Botswana on Thursday night in Casablanca at the ongoing 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

Chiwendu Ihezuo’s late strike ensured Nigeria became the first team to qualify for the quarter-finals of the tournament, with one group game still to play. The result makes the Falcons the only side with back-to-back wins in the group stage so far.

The $200,000 prize money comes under the enhanced reward structure announced by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), aimed at boosting motivation and performance in African women’s football.

The Falcons are not resting on their laurels as their focus now shifts to the ultimate prize, a record $1 million for the tournament winner.

Suppose Nigeria goes all the way to lift a 10th WAFCON title. In that case, they will not only reinforce their dominance in African women’s football but also secure the biggest payday in the competition’s history.

In Morocco, the Falcons are not just playing for glory, as they are playing for history and a financial legacy that could reshape women’s football in Nigeria for years to come.