The Nigerian Super Falcons have cemented their place as the dominant force in African women’s football after being officially crowned the CAF National Team of the Year for 2025 at a glittering awards ceremony celebrating excellence across the continent.
The award serves as a crowning moment for a team whose resilience, flair and fighting spirit captivated millions during their unforgettable triumph at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
Under the tactical leadership of Coach Justine Madugu, the Falcons overcame a turbulent tournament, culminating in a dramatic final against host nation, Morocco. In a packed Rabat stadium pulsating with cheers for the Atlas Lionesses, Nigeria fell behind early, but responded with a thrilling comeback to secure a 3–2 victory—a final widely regarded as one of the greatest in WAFCON history.
That win delivered the Falcons their record-extending 10th continental title, reinforcing their long-held position as the undisputed queens of African football.
At the awards gala, the team beat competitive nominees including long-standing rivals, Ghana’s Black Queens, and the spirited 2024 finalists, Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses. Receiving the trophy on behalf of the team, President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Gusau, described the honour as one shared by the entire nation.
“The entire nation is bursting with pride,” Gusau said. “This award is a testament to the hard work, dedication and sheer talent of our incredible players and technical crew. They have shown the world what Nigerian spirit is all about.”
The ceremony also spotlighted the nation’s future stars. Shakirat Moshood, captain of Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos, was nominated for the Young Women’s Player of the Year. Though the award went to Morocco’s emerging talent Doha El Madani, Moshood’s recognition signals a promising future for Nigeria’s next generation of footballers.
For Nigeria, the night was more than a celebration of past victories—it was a reaffirmation of a legacy and a glimpse into an even brighter horizon for women’s football.
