There are footballing nations in Africa, and then there is Nigeria.
Nigeria is the most successful nation in the history of WAFCON
When it comes to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), the Super Falcons of Nigeria are not just participants or contenders. They are history’s most dominant force. Since the tournament evolved into its current full-scale format in 1998, no nation has come close to Nigeria’s record. Out of 13 editions, Nigeria has walked away with the trophy an astonishing 10 times. That is not dominance; it is dynasty.
The most recent title in 2024 reaffirmed their status, as the Falcons rose once again to continental glory. Their victory silenced doubters and critics alike, especially after a surprising 2022 edition in which South Africa broke Nigeria’s winning streak. Yet, the setback only fuelled a hunger that has come to define Nigerian women’s football.
Look back at the roll call of champions and one name echoes almost consistently. Nigeria: 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2016, 2018, and now 2024. The exceptions in 2008 and 2012, where Equatorial Guinea made their mark, and the more recent 2022 South African triumph, only serve as blips in a legacy written by decades of excellence, grit, and ambition.
This is more than just winning. Nigeria’s success is rooted in a culture of resilience, in communities where young girls are still told football is not for them, and yet they lace up their boots anyway. The Super Falcons are not just playing for medals; they’re playing for visibility, for respect, and for the next generation.
No team on the continent has consistently produced world-class talent like Nigeria. From the legendary Mercy Akide to Asisat Oshoala, Nigeria has not just been a champion of Africa; it has exported excellence to the global stage.
Despite facing challenges ranging from inadequate support structures to wage disputes, the Super Falcons have found ways to rise. Over and over again. Their triumph is not just in the trophies, but in the consistency of their spirit.
As Nigeria celebrates another title, it is worth asking: what does it take to win 10 WAFCON trophies in under three decades? The answer lies not just in skill, but in sheer willpower, unyielding belief, and a collective identity that refuses to be sidelined.
Nigeria’s women are not waiting for the world to give them space. They’re taking it, one goal, one game, and one title at a time.
