Spain’s World Cup-winning coach hungry to help Morocco halt Nigeria’s WAFCON 2024 dream

Morocco will be edged on against Nigeria in the WAFCON 2024 final by one of the world's most respected tactician in women’s football

Spain's World Cup-winning tactician Jorge Vilda says Morocco are mentally primed to end Nigeria’s hopes of a record-extending tenth Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title when both nations meet in a highly anticipated final on Saturday.

Morocco, the tournament hosts, are aiming for a historic first WAFCON title. And in Vilda, they have a manager who knows exactly how to get it done on the biggest stages.

The 44-year-old Spaniard led his country’s women’s team to their maiden FIFA Women’s World Cup crown in 2023, having already secured continental success at youth levels with Spain's U17 and U19 sides.

Now, Vilda is determined to translate that winning pedigree into success for the Atlas Lionesses.

“They are a psychologically strong team and I’ve been very proud of the way we never give up,” Vilda said at the pre-match press conference.

“We have overcome some sticky situations up to now. The champions are the players who have helped us to reach our objectives.”

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Morocco came close three years ago, reaching the WAFCON final before falling short against South Africa. But under Vilda, there is renewed belief the team can finally get over the line.

However, the challenge is monumental. Nigeria have been formidable in this tournament, boasting both the best attack (11 goals scored) and the stingiest defence — conceding only once, a penalty against South Africa’s Linda Motlhalo.

Led by a squad featuring several Europe-based stars, including the influential Rasheedat Ajibade and Esther Okoronkwo, the Super Falcons are seeking a 10th title to reaffirm their dominance on the continent.

Still, Vilda insists his team will not be overawed by Nigeria’s reputation or physicality.

“The psychological aspect overrides the physical one in games like this,” he said.

“Nigeria has strong physical players with very outstanding players in terms of their individual qualities. They play in big leagues and have won the trophy many times.

“Nigeria have shown a lot of improvement through the tournament and overcome some very difficult teams, but we are going to face them without any inferiority complex.”

Morocco will count on home support at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, hoping the fans can tilt the balance in what promises to be a fierce contest.

Vilda’s belief in the mental strength of his side could prove decisive if they are to finally write their names in African football history.