In a remarkable showcase of talent, prowess and naija blood, four Nigerian football stars have secured coveted spots in the Best XI lineup of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), held in Morocco.
The Super Falcons’ quartet, Rasheedat Ajibade, Esther Okoronkwo, Michelle Alozie, and Chiamaka Nnadozie earned their places in this prestigious selection through their outstanding contributions throughout the tournament, as determined by the WAFCON Technical Study Group.
Their inclusion not only highlights their brilliance but also underscores Nigeria’s enduring legacy as a powerhouse in women’s football across the African continent.
Chiamaka Nnadozie, the Super Falcons’ formidable shot-stopper, emerged as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s campaign. Her exceptional performances between the posts earned her the title of Best Goalkeeper of the tournament. Nnadozie’s heroics were instrumental in Nigeria’s defensive solidity, as she recorded an impressive four clean sheets while conceding just two goals from open play, both of which came during the thrilling final against the host nation, Morocco.
On the right flank, Michelle Alozie proved herself as a defensive stalwart, earning recognition as the best right-back of the tournament. The Houston Dash defender, known for her tenacity and consistency, featured in five of Nigeria’s six matches during the competition. Alozie’s resilience and tactical awareness in defense, coupled with her ability to contribute to the team’s build-up play, made her a standout performer.
Esther Okoronkwo, the dynamic winger, brought flair and creativity to Nigeria’s attacking unit. Her versatility and relentless energy on the pitch were evident throughout the tournament, as she featured in all six of Nigeria’s matches. Okoronkwo’s offensive contributions were nothing short of spectacular, with two goals and an impressive six assists to her name. Her ability to unlock defenses and create scoring opportunities earned her the Woman of the Match award on two occasions, highlighting her significant impact on Nigeria’s forward play.
Leading the charge was team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, whose exceptional leadership and skill saw her crowned the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the 2024 WAFCON. At just 24 years old, Ajibade demonstrated maturity beyond her years, guiding the Super Falcons with poise and determination. Her contributions on the field were equally remarkable, as she scored one goal and provided two assists while earning three Woman of the Match honors for her influential displays.
The inclusion of four Super Falcons in the Best XI is a resounding affirmation of Nigeria’s continued dominance in African women’s football. The team’s rich history of success, combined with the emergence of young, talented players like Ajibade, Okoronkwo, Alozie, and Nnadozie, signals a bright future for the Super Falcons. Their performances in Morocco not only brought pride to Nigerian fans but also showcased the depth of talent within the squad. As the continent’s premier women’s football competition, the WAFCON provided a stage for these players to shine, and their recognition in the Best XI is a fitting tribute to their hard work, skill, and dedication.
One Response
This is a good development for our women football. These ladies need all the support we can give as a nation to see that they attain their highest potential.