Nigeria dominates 2024 WAFCON All-Star XI with four players

Four players from the Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) champions, Super Falcons of Nigeria made the 2024 tournament’s official All-Star Eleven.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Monday unveiled the dream team, recognizing the standout performers who illuminated the continental showpiece in Morocco.

Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, right back Michelle Alozie, the tournament Most Valuable Player (MVP)Rasheedat Ajibade and exceptionally forward Esther Okoronkwo were selected in the dream team.

The players played huge roles in Nigeria’s triumphant campaign in the tournament which culminated in an impressive comeback 3-2 win over hosts Morocco in the final, that propelled the Super Falcons to a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.

Nnadozie, who was crowned the Best Goalkeeper of the tournament, was a rock between the sticks for Nigeria. She maintained an impressive four clean sheets throughout the competition, conceding only three goals in six matches (two of which came in the thrilling final).

Meanwhile, captain Ajibade, consistently delivered inspiring performances all through the tournament earning her three woman of the match awards, during the tournament, underlining her consistent impact and influence on Nigeria’s path to glory.

Okoronkwo emerged as the hero of the final, playing a direct hand in all three of Nigeria’s goals that sealed the comeback. Her penalty conversion sparked the Super Falcons’ revival, and she subsequently provided two crucial assists, including the delivery for the late winner.

Alozie was a consistent performer at right-back for the newly crowned champions, providing both defensive solidity and attacking impetus down the flank.

The All-Star Eleven list also includes, Ibtissam Jraidi, the tournament’s highest goal scorer, and Ghizlane Chebbak of finalists Morocco, Ghana’s third-place Black Queens duo of Grace Asantewaa and Portia Boakye.

Rounding out this prestigious list were South Africa’s Refiloe Jane, Karabo Dhlamini, and Bambanani Mbane.