Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has delivered a heartfelt message of encouragement to the Super Falcons ahead of their much-anticipated final clash against the Atlas Lionesses of Morocco in the 2024 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The final showdown, scheduled to take place today (Saturday) at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, will see Nigeria aiming for a historic and record-extending 10th WAFCON title. The Super Falcons, led by head coach Justin Madugu, are just 90 minutes away from etching their names deeper into the annals of African football.
In a video message posted on the official X (formerly Twitter) account of the Super Falcons, First Lady Tinubu applauded the team’s outstanding journey to the final and encouraged the players to give their all for Nigeria.
“My beautiful and lovely Super Falcons, I congratulate you and the officials for qualifying for the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations,” the First Lady said.
“I commend your team spirit, determination, and professionalism demonstrated in all your matches so far. You are shining examples to girls in Nigeria and across Africa.”
Her message continued with a prayer for victory and a reminder of the pride the team brings to the nation:
“As you step out for the final match, I pray God crowns your efforts with resounding victory. Make us proud, our worthy ambassadors and champions. Nigerians and I are waiting to receive you with a trophy in your hands.”
The First Lady’s message has resonated with Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, many of whom have taken to social media to echo her sentiments and express their support for the team. The Super Falcons have once again captured the heart of the nation with their grit, flair, and determination throughout the tournament.
Nigeria’s journey to the final has been nothing short of impressive. The West African giants kicked off their WAFCON campaign with consecutive victories, dispatching Tunisia and Botswana in their opening two group games. A hard-fought 1-1 draw against Algeria in their final group match ensured they finished top of their group and advanced to the knockout stages.
In the quarter-finals, the Falcons produced one of the tournament’s most commanding performances, thrashing Zambia’s Copper Queens 5-0 in a statement victory. The goals poured in from all directions, with Nigeria showcasing the attacking prowess that has made them the most successful women’s football team on the continent.
Their semi-final clash with South Africa’s Banyana Banyana proved more challenging but ended with a satisfying 2-1 victory, setting up a blockbuster final against the host nation, Morocco.
So far, the Super Falcons have scored an impressive 11 goals and conceded just once throughout the tournament. Key players like Asisat Oshoala, Rasheedat Ajibade, and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie have delivered standout performances, while the team’s unity and depth have underlined their championship credentials.
Coach Justin Madugu, who took over the reins in 2023, has praised the team’s discipline, adaptability, and hunger for success. His tactical approach has been credited with balancing the Falcons’ trademark attacking flair with defensive solidity.
“This team has shown heart and commitment from day one,” Madugu said during a pre-final press conference. “We know what’s at stake. We’re not just playing for a trophy; we’re playing for every girl who dreams, every fan who believes in us, and a country that breathes football.”
The Super Falcons’ dominance in African women’s football is unmatched. Since the inaugural WAFCON in 1991, Nigeria has lifted the trophy nine times, including a three-peat between 2014 and 2018. However, they lost their grip on the title in 2022 when they exited in the semi-finals, eventually finishing fourth. This year’s campaign, therefore, represents a chance for redemption—and a return to the summit of African football.
Facing them in the final is a formidable Moroccan side backed by a passionate home crowd. The Atlas Lionesses have grown in strength over the years and are keen to win their first-ever WAFCON title on home soil. Their rise has been fueled by strategic investment in women’s football, and their current squad boasts a blend of experience and youthful exuberance.
Still, the Super Falcons will carry the weight of expectation and the confidence of history as they step onto the pitch in Rabat. With the nation firmly behind them, the Nigerian ladies will be hoping to silence the home crowd and return to Abuja with their tenth continental crown.
As the final whistle approaches, the voices of millions—including that of Nigeria’s First Lady—will echo in support of a team that has become a symbol of resilience, pride, and excellence. The stage is set. The stakes are high. And the Super Falcons are ready to fly.
