Jennifer Echegini says her late winner in Nigeria’s historic Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final victory over Morocco will remain a career-defining memory.
The 24-year-old midfielder was the hero of the night, sweeping home Esther Okoronkwo’s pinpoint free-kick in the 88th minute to seal a dramatic 3–2 comeback win for the Super Falcons at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat on Saturday.
“I’m just going to carry this moment close to me,” Echegini told the BBC World Service.
“If I’m ever doubting myself as a player, I just think of this to encourage me and give me confidence.”
The goal didn’t just win the match — it secured Nigeria a record-extending 10th WAFCON title. And for Echegini, it was extra special.
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“It’s my first trophy I’ve ever won in my career, so definitely a memorable one that I’ll keep in my heart forever.”
The Super Falcons had trailed 2–0 at half-time after goals from Moroccan captain Ghizlane Chebbak and striker Sanaa Mssoudy stunned the Nigerians and sent the home crowd into a frenzy.
But Nigeria, showing resilience befitting champions, flipped the script after the break.
Esther Okoronkwo converted a 63rd-minute penalty to start the comeback, before setting up Folashade Ijamilusi for the equaliser. Then, with extra time looming, Okoronkwo delivered again — this time swinging in a deadly free-kick for Echegini to bury.
Reflecting on the comeback, Echegini said the Falcons had nothing to lose and everything to fight for.
“We’re 2-0 down in the final, it’s half-time, you absolutely have nothing to lose,” she said.
“It’s either you play with fear and you lose the game or you put everything into the game and you hope you win — and we did so.”
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