Justine Madugu’s team outperformed their rivals and reigning champions South Africa, while the Atlas Lionesses narrowly defeated the Black Queens in a dramatic penalty shootout to secure their spot in the final.
When both teams take the field at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat on Saturday, the championship will be on the line; each team has differing aspirations. Nigeria is pursuing a record-extending 10th title, referred to as ‘Mission X,’ while the hosts Morocco are aiming to win their first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title.
The former Atletico Madrid player acknowledges that the final will be challenging, but asserts that her team will approach it with the same mentality that has kept them undefeated throughout the tournament.
"First and foremost, we are genuinely thankful to have reached this stage. Making it to the final is a blessing, but as always, we’re taking it one match at a time," Ajibade told Flashscore.com.
"This is the final and the most significant match of the tournament. We’re tackling it with the same confidence and focus that has guided us from the group stage. Our approach remains unchanged, and our mindset and belief stay strong.
"We recognize that this final will require even more from us mentally, physically, emotionally, and tactically. To win, we must exceed 100%, striving for 120, even 150%, because we’re facing the host nation.
"It will be intense, fiercely competitive, and demanding. However, we entrust the game to God, as we always do. We’ll give our all and rely on Him to bless our efforts."
Saturday’s final marks the fourth encounter between Nigeria and Morocco in the biennial African tournament. Their previous match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Morocco narrowly defeating the Super Falcons 5-4 on penalties in the semi-final of the last edition.
Coach Jorge Vilda will depend on the potent duo of Ibtissam Jraidi and Ghizlane Chebbak to dim the Super Falcons’ brilliance.
Ajibade: National pride over personal accolades
As the team captain, Ajibade has been the driving force behind the Super Falcons’ remarkable campaign.
The FC Robo star is on track to be named WAFCON 2024 Player of the Tournament, having received Player of the Match honors three times; the most recent being in the semi-final victory over South Africa.
Nevertheless, the 25-year-old remains modest, focusing on the team’s ultimate objective rather than individual recognition.
"I’ve been privileged to receive three Player of the Match awards thus far, and honestly, all I can say is: to God alone be the glory. I didn’t anticipate it, nor was I playing with that goal in mind," she continued.
"Every time I step onto the pitch, it’s simply to give my all alongside my teammates. I play with my spirit, soul, body, and with every drop of sweat and every ounce of effort.
"Winning three awards is humbling, but it’s not solely about me; it’s a team accomplishment. If I could, I’d share it with each of my teammates because we achieved it together.
"This recognition is also for every young girl out there aspiring to become a professional footballer one day. I don’t take pride in my own strength, but in the power of God who is truly at work in me."
She added: "What matters most is Mission X, and it transcends individual awards. This journey is all about teamwork, collective effort, and achieving a common goal.
"What has sustained my consistency and impact throughout the tournament is nothing but God’s grace and mercy."
Ajibade, Nigeria’s joint-top scorer at the 2022 WAFCON, takes pride in leading a team that combines experienced veterans with promising new talent.
"Leading the Super Falcons to the final of the 2024 WAFCON on this Mission X journey, I’m profoundly grateful to God Almighty through our Lord Jesus Christ," Ajibade stated.
"It’s a mix of emotions, and I feel excited, humbled, and truly blessed to have the responsibility of captaining such an exceptional and inspiring squad.
"This is an honor I do not take lightly. While the burden of leadership is significant, I’m thankful for the grace God has provided me to carry it with strength and purpose."
Before making her senior international debut in 2018, Ajibade represented Nigeria at both U17 and U20 levels.
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