Ajibade Named MVP, Nnadozie Wins Best Goalkeeper as Nigeria Dominate WAFCON 2024 Awards

Ajibade Named MVP, Nnadozie Wins Best Goalkeeper as Nigeria Dominate WAFCON 2024 Awards

By Niyi Busari 

Nigeria’s Super Falcons capped their triumphant 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with individual accolades to match their collective success, as captain Rasheedat Ajibade was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP), and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie took home the Best Goalkeeper Award, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Ajibade, the inspirational leader and dynamic winger, was a constant force throughout the competition. Her combination of skill, tenacity, and leadership proved vital as Nigeria stormed to a record-extending 10th WAFCON title. The former Atlético Madrid star was named Woman of the Match in three of Nigeria’s six games and played a decisive role in their thrilling 3–2 victory over host nation Morocco in the final.

At the opposite end of the pitch, Nnadozie provided the bedrock for Nigeria’s success. The newly-signed Brighton shot-stopper was a commanding presence between the posts, conceding just two goals during the entire tournament—both of which came in the high-octane final. Her crucial saves were instrumental in Nigeria’s semi-final triumph over defending champions South Africa, further cementing her reputation as one of Africa’s finest goalkeepers.

Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak claimed the Golden Boot, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer with five goals. Her early goal in the final gave the Atlas Lionesses hope, but it ultimately wasn’t enough to prevent Nigeria from staging a stunning comeback.

Meanwhile, South Africa were honoured with the Fair Play Award, in recognition of their exemplary discipline and sportsmanship across the competition.

The 13th edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations not only showcased the growing depth and quality of women’s football across the continent but also reaffirmed Nigeria’s enduring dominance. With 10 titles from 10 finals appearances, the Super Falcons remain the undisputed queens of African football.