WAFCON 2024: Nigeria, Morocco dominate as four Super Falcons stars make CAF’s Best XI

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have capped off their historic 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title by having four players named in the CAF Team of the Tournament — more than any other nation.

Following their thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over hosts Morocco in the final in Rabat, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) unveiled its Best XI, showing the standout performers of the 2024 edition.

Leading the Nigerian contingent is goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, who was also crowned Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament.

Her commanding presence between the sticks was instrumental to Nigeria’s success, providing crucial saves throughout the competition.

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Nnadozie is joined in defence by Houston Dash star Michelle Alozie, who impressed with her relentless energy and tactical discipline at right back.

In attack, Nigeria’s presence is even more pronounced. Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, voted Player of the Tournament, features on the right wing. Ajibade played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s title run, combining leadership with creativity and finishing prowess.

Lining up on the left side of the front three is Esther Okoronkwo, who delivered a stunning performance in the final. The 27-year-old scored once and assisted the other two goals as Nigeria battled from two goals down to secure victory. With two goals and six assists, Okoronkwo ended WAFCON 2024 as the tournament’s most prolific contributor.

Alongside Nigeria’s quartet, the team features three players from runners-up Morocco, and two each from Ghana and South Africa, the other semi-finalists. Ghana edged South Africa to claim bronze in the third-place playoff.

The team, arranged in a 4-3-3 formation, sees South Africa’s Karabo Dhlamini at left back, flanked by Portia Boakye (Ghana) and Bambanani Mbane (South Africa) in central defence.

In midfield, Grace Asantewaa (Ghana), Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco) — the tournament’s top scorer with five goals — and Refiloe Jane (South Africa) form a balanced trio.

Morocco’s Ibtissam Jraïdi, who also had a stellar campaign, leads the line in attack.

Nigeria’s victory sees the country pocket the $1 million prize money CAF made available for the WAFCON winners with a sizeable chunk expected to go to the Super Falcons.