Four Nigerian Super Falcons—Rasheedat Ajibade, Chiamaka Nnadozie, Esther Okoronkwo, and Michelle Alozie—have been named in the official Best XI of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) following their electrifying performances that powered Nigeria to its 10th continental crown. The list was released by the tournament’s Technical Study Group on Monday, July 28, 2025.

Chiamaka Nnadozie emerged as a standout performer between the posts, earning the title of Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament after keeping four clean sheets and conceding just two goals—both in the dramatic final clash against hosts Morocco. Her composure, quick reflexes, and commanding presence were vital to Nigeria’s unbeaten campaign.

Michelle Alozie, the Houston Dash right-back, solidified her reputation as Africa’s finest fullback with her relentless pace and disciplined defending. Featuring in five of Nigeria’s six matches, Alozie was named Best Right-Back of the competition and was a constant threat in both defense and attack.

Advertisements

Esther Okoronkwo delivered a breakout tournament performance, finishing with two goals and six assists across six matches. The AFC Toronto winger dazzled defenders with her agility and creativity and bagged two Woman of the Match awards. Her ability to unlock defenses played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s attacking dominance.

HAVE YOU READ?:  You don’t have dignity – Hamann slams Ronaldo over decision after Morocco game

Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade capped off a phenomenal tournament by being named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of WAFCON 2024. The Atlético Madrid star scored once and assisted twice but impressed most with her leadership, work rate, and consistency. She walked away with three Woman of the Match accolades, including one in the semi-final victory over South Africa.

The inclusion of four Super Falcons in the tournament’s Best XI underscores Nigeria’s tactical superiority, squad depth, and big-match mentality. It also reflects the resurgence of African women’s football, with scouts from top European clubs reportedly monitoring several Nigerian players throughout the tournament.

Following their return to Abuja on Sunday night, the Super Falcons are set to be hosted by President Bola Tinubu, further solidifying the team’s legendary status in African football. The recognition of these four players adds an exclamation mark to what is already being hailed as one of the most dominant WAFCON campaigns in history.

Advertisements