Women Football
WAFCON 2024 Awards: Ajibade Named Player of the Tournament, Nnadozie Wins Best Goalkeeper — Full List
Nigeria’s Super Falcons capped off their remarkable 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Morocco in the final, securing a record-extending 10th continental title and sweeping several top individual awards.
The thrilling finale, held on Saturday night in Rabat, saw Nigeria overturn a two-goal deficit to defeat the host nation, underscoring the team’s resilience and championship pedigree. Central to that success were two standout performers: captain Rasheedat Ajibade and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.
Ajibade, whose influence was felt throughout the tournament, was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the competition. The skillful winger played a crucial role in Nigeria’s unbeaten run, earning Woman of the Match honours on three occasions and leading by example with her creativity, determination, and leadership.
In goal, 23-year-old Nnadozie was equally vital to Nigeria’s title charge. Her assured presence and timely saves earned her the Best Goalkeeper award. She conceded just two goals in open play, both in the final, and delivered key performances in the knockout rounds, notably in the semi-final triumph over holders South Africa.
Despite falling short in the final, Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak claimed the Golden Boot with five goals, including the opener against Nigeria. Her efforts powered the Atlas Lionesses to a historic final appearance on home soil.
South Africa, eliminated by Nigeria in the last four, were recognised with the Fair Play Award for their discipline and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
The 2024 edition of WAFCON, the 13th in the competition’s history, once again reaffirmed Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football. The Super Falcons have now won all 10 finals they’ve contested, maintaining their status as the continent’s most successful team.
WAFCON 2024 Award Winners:
Most Valuable Player: Rasheedat Ajibade (Nigeria)
Best Goalkeeper: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria)
Golden Boot: Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco) – 5 goals
Coach of the Tournament: Justin Madugu (Nigeria)
Fair Play Award: South Africa
