The Super Falcons have returned to Nigeria following their triumph at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, where they secured their 10th continental title.
The Falcons arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja aboard a chartered flight at approximately 2:26 p.m. on Monday.
On arrival, the captain of the team, Rasheedat Ajibade, was seen raising the WAFCON trophy high as she alighted from the aircraft, symbolising the team’s victorious homecoming.
President Bola Tinubu will hosts the Super Falcons at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The Falcons won their 10th continental title over the weekend, defeating host nation Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses in a thrilling final in Rabat, Morocco.
The presidential reception is one of several official events planned to commemorate the team’s outstanding performance, which has once again improved Nigeria’s status in African women’s football.
Governors Uba Sani of Kaduna State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, and Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, together with many federal ministers, were at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja to welcome the team.
The Falcons’ return has sparked nationwide celebrations, with many Nigerians praising the team for their resilience, discipline, and determination throughout the tournament.
Meanwhile, four Super Falcons stars, Rasheedat Ajibade, Esther Okoronkwo, Michelle Alozie, and Chiamaka Nnadozie, have been named in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Best XI, following Nigeria’s dominant run to clinch their 10th continental title.
The Confederation of African Football Women, via its official X handle (formerly Twitter), unveiled the tournament’s standout performers on Sunday.
“The stars who shone the brightest. Meet your Best XI of the tournament,” CAF Women wrote.
Ajibade, who contributed significantly throughout the competition, was named Player of the Competition.
The Atletico Madrid forward also won Woman of the Match awards in three of Nigeria’s six games, demonstrating her leadership and offensive ability.
Okoronkwo was as impressive, scoring two goals and assisting four times.
Her attacking efforts were critical in Nigeria’s championship run.
Nnadozie was crowned Best Keeper after preserving four clean sheets, solidifying her reputation as one of the continent’s most reliable hands.
Defender Alozie, who played every minute of Nigeria’s campaign, also made the list.
Her dramatic late winner against South Africa in the semi-finals was one of the tournament’s most memorable moments.
