Nigeria’s status as the powerhouse of African women’s football was once again reinforced as four Super Falcons players were named in the official Team of the Tournament for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The announcement, made yesterday (Monday) by the Confederation of African Football, comes two days after Super Falcons won their record-extending 10th WAFCON title in dramatic fashion, defeating hosts Morocco 3–2 in a pulsating final in Rabat.
Leading the all-star selection is goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, who was also crowned the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper after delivering four clean sheets and conceding just three goals across six matches.
Her heroics between the sticks included crucial saves in the group stage and a strong presence in the tense knockout fixtures, where she helped guide Nigeria past Zambia and South Africa.
Ajibade, the heartbeat of the team, was named the tournament’s Best Player, having collected three Player of the Match awards.
The Lagos-born midfielder also sacrificed her usual forward role to operate deeper, orchestrating Nigeria’s attacking transitions and leading by example in pressure moments.
Okoronkwo, whose performances peaked in the final, netted one goal and provided two assists as Nigeria came from behind to stun Morocco.
Her efforts earned her the Player of the Match award in the title decider and underlined her value as one of the team’s most dynamic attackers.
South Africa, semifinalists at the tournament, also contributed three players to the all-star XI, while hosts Morocco and Ghana had two representatives each.
Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak, the competition’s top scorer with five goals, was selected in midfield alongside Ghana’s Grace Asantewaa and South Africa’s Refiloe Jane.
In defence, South Africa’s Karabo Dhlamini and Bambanani Mbane were included alongside Ghana’s Portia Boakye.
The forward line was completed by Moroccan striker Ibtissam Jraidi, who impressed with her hold-up play and link-up ability throughout the tournament.
