The Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has lodged a formal complaint with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), citing “refereeing injustices” during the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final, where Nigeria’s Super Falcons secured a dramatic 3-2 victory.
According to Morocco World News, the FRMF specifically pointed to a controversial incident in the 82nd minute, with the score level at 2-2. Morocco believed they were denied a clear penalty following a potential handball by Nigerian defender Tosin Demehin. Although the referee initially awarded the penalty, a VAR review overturned the decision, sparking immediate frustration among Morocco’s coaching staff and players.
The federation claims this decision shifted the momentum in Nigeria’s favor, ultimately influencing the match’s outcome.
Morocco’s head coach Jorge Vilda, who famously led Spain to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup title, expressed disappointment: “It was a small detail that cost us the game.” He also noted his players were visibly affected by fatigue in the second half.
On the other hand, Nigeria’s coach Justine Madugu praised Morocco’s strong start but highlighted halftime tactical adjustments as the turning point. “The players who came off the bench made the difference,” he said, adding, “Morocco have a promising future.”
The final, held at Rabat’s Olympic Stadium, saw Morocco take an early 2-0 lead in the first half. However, the Super Falcons mounted a powerful comeback, with goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and substitute Jennifer Echegini securing the thrilling victory.
With this win, Nigeria clinched a record-extending 10th WAFCON title, while Morocco became the first host nation to lose consecutive WAFCON finals.
In the third-place playoff, Ghana’s Black Queens defeated South Africa’s Banyana Banyana on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Looking ahead, Morocco will host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), welcoming the continent’s top male footballers. This will mark Morocco’s second time hosting AFCON, the first being in 1988 when Cameroon edged Nigeria 1-0 in the final.
