Date: Saturday, July 26, 2025
Kick‑off Time: 9:00 pm (WAT)
Venue: Olympic Stadium, Rabat, Morocco
Referee: Antsino Twanyanyukwa (Namibia)
Prediction: Morocco 0–2 Nigeria
Hosts Morocco Eye Final After Tough Semi‑Final
For much of the tournament, Morocco looked set to cruise into the final. However, their semi‑final proved to be their toughest test yet, pushing them to show resilience in defense and creativity in attack.
Coach Reynald Pedros has kept a largely stable lineup throughout, with captain Ghizlane Chebbak providing leadership and flair in midfield. Their defensive unit has been compact and disciplined, while their attacking transitions remain dangerous.
Morocco Starting XI:
• Goalkeeper: Khadija Errmichi
• Defenders: Zineb Redouani, Nouhaila Benzina, Aziza Rabbah, Hanane Ait El Haj
• Midfielders: Yasmin Mrabet, Fatima Tagnaout, Najat Badri, Sakina Ouzraoui Diki, Ghizlane Chebbak
• Forward: Ibtissam Jraidi
Nigeria’s Bold Choices Pay Off
The Super Falcons of Nigeria have grown stronger as the tournament progressed. After making daring selection changes following their second group match, they’ve found a balance that has driven them into the title conversation.
Initially, star forward Asisat Oshoala and winger Rinsola Babajide were expected to be central to the campaign, but both have since been dropped despite early praise—Oshoala for tactical reasons and Babajide despite her fine opener against Tunisia. These moves, controversial at first, now appear inspired, as Nigeria’s attack looks sharper and more unpredictable.
Nigeria Starting XI:
• Goalkeeper: Chiamaka Nnadozie
• Defenders: Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, Blessing Demehin, Ashleigh Plumptre
• Midfielders: Halimatu Ayinde, Rasheedat Ajibade, Jennifer Echegini
• Forwards: Folashade Ijamilusi, Esther Okoronkwo, Chinwendu Ihezuo
Nigeria are record 11‑time WAFCON champions, known for their physicality and relentless attacking style. Morocco, on the other hand, are looking to cement their rise in women’s football after reaching the final in 2022. The clash in Rabat promises intensity, with both sides chasing glory.
Analysts note that Nigeria’s recent tactical tweaks—pressing high and relying on Ajibade’s drive from midfield—could be decisive. Meanwhile, Morocco’s home advantage and passionate crowd could push them to deliver another historic performance.
Kick‑off is set for 9:00 pm at the Olympic Stadium, and fans across Africa are eager to see if Nigeria’s bold selections will pay off or if Morocco will rise to the occasion on home soil.
