Super Falcons are the 2024 WAFCON champions
Photo credit | CAF Women's Football/X
President Bola Tinubu has again celebrated the Super Falcons on their historic victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The Falcons defeated the hosts Morocco 3-2 in a thrilling final on Saturday to claim a record-extending 10th continental title.
In a video call with the newly crowned champions, Tinubu lauded the players for their resilience and fighting spirit.
The president also pledged a grand reception upon their return to Nigeria, saying he “eagerly looks forward to receiving the trophy in Abuja”.
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“I am very, very proud of you. The entire nation is proud of you. You have lifted our spirits. You are a pride to your generation and we are all very happy,” he said.
“You will be celebrated, and I congratulate all the coaches and management of the team, including the ministers and the officials.”
Tinubu commended captain Rasheedat Ajibade for her overall performance and Esther Okoronkwo for her composure during a crucial moment in the final, describing her 64th-minute penalty kick, which sparked a dramatic comeback, as “very courageous”.
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Okoronkwo assisted the second goal before delivering the match-winning free-kick converted by Jennifer Echegini.
“Safe journey home. Enjoy yourselves, avoid injuries, and God bless you,” Tinubu added, prompting cheers of “Thank you, Mr. President!” from the team.
Ajibade, responding on behalf of the squad, expressed gratitude for the president’s approval of full payment of players’ allowances and assured him the team was eager to present the WAFCON trophy to him in Abuja.
Tinubu earlier praised Falcons’ “spectacular performance and resilience,” adding that the team “has achieved the mission the nation dreamed of and prayed for”.
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