All eyes on the continent and across the world will be on the 21,000-capacity Olympic Stadium in Rabat today as host nation Morocco take on nine-time champions Nigeria in a much-anticipated final of the 13th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
It’s a clash between history makers and record chasers, with Morocco gunning for their first-ever WAFCON title, and Nigeria seeking a record extending continental 10th title. One nation on the cusp of greatness in women football, and the other chasing a record that would be insurmountable for years to come.
On the other side, Morocco’s Spanish coach. Jorge Vilda would also be hoping to make history like his squad. If the Atlas Lionesses win the final, Vilda would be the first coach in history to win a rare double – the FIFA Women’s World Cup (2023) and CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) titles with two different national teams on separate continents.
For Nigeria’s coach, Justin Madugu, it would signal a sign of great things to come for him and his all-conquering side were they to lift their 10th title, cementing their legendary status.
“We have a highly motivated group of players, aware of the pressure of a final. They are ready to give their all,” said Madugu who has successfully blended youth and experience in this Super Falcons team.
For Vilda, it’s not just a match. “It’s a message for the entire country. Women’s football is making great strides, and this final is an opportunity to show the world that we belong,” he said.
Both teams are yet to lose a game. It promises to be a clash of styles and era, the resurgence of a not too distant glorious past or the beginning of a promising future.
