Four standout players from Nigeria’s Super Falcons have been included in the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 Best XI, following their unforgettable 3–2 comeback victory over host nation Morocco in the final. This win secured Nigeria a record-extending 10th WAFCON title, solidifying their dominance in African women’s football.
The quartet of Chiamaka Nnadozie, Michelle Alozie, Esther Okoronkwo, and Rasheedat Ajibade earned their spots in the elite selection thanks to a series of brilliant individual displays throughout the tournament. Nigeria had the highest number of players included in the team of the tournament, a testament to their depth and consistency.
Chiamaka Nnadozie, who was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament, delivered a string of superb performances between the posts. She recorded four clean sheets and conceded only three goals during the competition. One goal came from a penalty in the semi-final against South Africa, while the remaining two were scored by Morocco in the final. Her calm presence and shot-stopping ability proved vital to Nigeria’s title run.
Michelle Alozie was equally instrumental in Nigeria’s campaign. The dynamic right back provided defensive solidity and attacking threat throughout the tournament. Her most memorable moment came in the semi-final against South Africa, where she scored a late winner to send Nigeria through to the final. Her tireless work rate and composure under pressure made her one of the standout defenders in the competition.
Esther Okoronkwo emerged as one of the tournament’s most influential players. She was at the heart of Nigeria’s stunning comeback in the final, converting a crucial penalty to reduce the deficit to 2–1. She then provided the assist for Folashade Ijamilusi’s equaliser and delivered the decisive free kick that Jennifer Echegini converted for the winning goal. Okoronkwo was named Player of the Match in the final, adding to her earlier recognition in the group stage win against Tunisia. She finished the tournament with two goals and six assists.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade was the emotional and tactical leader of the Super Falcons. The forward scored from the penalty spot in the semi-final clash against South Africa and consistently inspired the team with her leadership and energy. Ajibade was named Woman of the Match on three occasions and was ultimately crowned Player of the Tournament, underscoring her importance to Nigeria’s success.
With these recognitions, the Super Falcons not only added another trophy to their collection but also cemented their status as a powerhouse in African women’s football. Their dominance was reflected not just in their title win, but in the individual brilliance that led to four of their stars being honoured in the Best XI of the tournament.
