Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to welcome the triumphant Super Falcons in Abuja following their thrilling comeback victory over hosts Morocco in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The Falcons came from two goals down to win 3-2, clinching their record-extending 10th WAFCON title and also sweeping several individual awards.
READ ALSO: Tinubu congratulates Super Falcons on WAFCON victory
Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade was named Player of the Tournament, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie received the Best Goalkeeper award, while head coach Justine Magudu was honoured as the Coach of the Tournament.
Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, who was part of the federal delegation that accompanied the team to Morocco, confirmed to The Guardian via a phone call that arrangements were in place for the team’s return and reception.
“I am in the team’s camp right now trying to put finishing touches on final departure to Abuja today (Sunday) or tomorrow (Monday). Our sports-loving President Bola Tinubu spoke with the players shortly after the victory on Saturday night and promised to give them a red carpet reception on arrival,” Olopade said.
In his congratulatory message, President Tinubu praised the team’s resolve, describing their performance as a testament to Nigerian resilience.
“With hard work, dedication, and tenacity, you have achieved the mission the nation dreamed of and prayed for. The nation looks forward to welcoming our champions. Congratulations! Nigeria celebrates you,” Tinubu stated.
Reflecting on the game’s intensity, particularly after Morocco took an early two-goal lead, Olopade said he never doubted the Falcons’ ability to mount a comeback.“I believed so much in Coach Magudu’s tactics, and I thank God it played out well in the final.
“When we were two goals down, I told Nigerian dignitaries around me, including the Director General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, and the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Chief Sunday Dare, not to panic.”
He lauded tactical changes made in the second half that energized the team, leading to goals from Florence Ijamilusi and Jennifer Echegini.
“I must also give kudos to Esther Okoronkwo for her brilliant performance,” Olopade added, “We celebrated late into the night, and I thank all those who stood by the Super Falcons throughout the competition in Morocco.”
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