As the stage is set for the grand finale of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), former Nigerian international goalkeeper Alloy Agu has called on the Super Falcons to give nothing less than 100% concentration if they are to overcome a resurgent Moroccan side and lift their record-extending 10th continental title.
The eagerly anticipated clash will take place at the 21,000-capacity Olympic Stadium in Rabat on Saturday, where Nigeria will face the host nation Morocco in what promises to be a pulsating final between two undefeated teams.
Speaking to Completesports.com, Agu emphasized that the Falcons must remain fully alert for the entire 90 minutes, avoid costly mistakes, and maintain defensive discipline if they hope to return home with the coveted trophy.
“I see a very open and interesting final between the Super Falcons and host Morocco,” Agu said. “The Moroccans have improved massively compared to previous editions. Their game has become more fluid, and they now possess players who can individually turn a game around.”
The Super Falcons have conceded just one goal en route to the final, showing impressive defensive resilience throughout the tournament. However, they will be up against a Moroccan team that has grown in stature and confidence since their semi-final win over Nigeria in 2022 — a match that ended 1-1 and saw Morocco triumph 5-4 on penalties.
Led by captain Ghizlane Chebbak, Morocco has developed into a formidable unit. Players like Fatima Tagnaout, Sanaa Mssoudy, Ibtissam Jraidi, and Sakina Ouzraoui have been standout performers, blending technical skill with relentless energy. The North Africans have also benefitted from an enthusiastic home crowd, which has acted as a twelfth player throughout the tournament.
Despite the quality of the opposition, Agu believes Nigeria’s experience at this level gives them the edge. “As hosts, the pressure will be on the Moroccans to deliver in front of their fans. But our players are experienced. They know how to handle such moments. I think we’ll weather their early aggressive play and take control as the game progresses,” he said.
Nigeria’s journey to the final has been nothing short of dominant. Victories over Botswana, Zambia, and South Africa have highlighted the team’s maturity, tactical awareness, and depth in talent. With star players like Rasheedat Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala, and Christy Ucheibe in fine form, the Falcons will be banking on their firepower and big-match temperament.
Agu also praised the leadership and unity within the Super Falcons camp. “They’re not just playing for themselves; they’re playing for national pride and to make history. You can see how united the squad is. That spirit can carry them over the line.”
Earlier in the week, President Bola Tinubu approved the full payment of allowances and bonuses for the team, a move that has reportedly boosted morale in camp. The gesture underscores the importance of the match not just for the players, but for the nation as a whole.
Should the Super Falcons emerge victorious, it will mark their 10th WAFCON title, reinforcing their status as Africa’s most successful women’s team. The magnitude of the occasion is not lost on the players, many of whom have spoken openly about their desire to lift the trophy in front of a global audience.
For Nigeria, Saturday’s final is more than just a football match. It’s a chance to reclaim dominance, avenge past heartbreak, and celebrate a legacy built over decades. But as Alloy Agu rightly noted, only maximum concentration and flawless execution will see the Falcons soar one more time.
The world will be watching.
