By Deborah Nnamdi
Nigeria’s Super Falcons have reaffirmed their dominance in African women’s football by contributing the most players to the CAF Team of the Tournament following their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.
In the official Best XI released by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) after the tournament’s conclusion in Rabat, Morocco, four Nigerian players earned spots—more than any other nation.
Headlining the list is Chiamaka Nnadozie, named Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament. Her commanding presence and clutch saves, particularly in knockout rounds, were vital to Nigeria’s title run.
Michelle Alozie, the Houston Dash right-back, also cut. She stood out with relentless energy, smart positioning, and high-intensity pressing throughout the tournament.
In the attack, two Super Falcons stars were recognized for their decisive contributions.
Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, voted Player of the Tournament, was named on the right wing. Her leadership, creativity, and goal-scoring threat made her the heartbeat of Nigeria’s offense.
On the opposite flank, Esther Okoronkwo earned her place after a standout campaign. The 27-year-old was instrumental in Nigeria’s dramatic 3–2 comeback win over host nation Morocco in the final—scoring once and assisting twice. She finished the tournament with two goals and a tournament-high six assists.
The CAF Best XI is set in a 4-3-3 formation and features players from all four semi-finalist nations—Morocco (3), South Africa (2), and Ghana (2), alongside Nigeria’s four.
Full CAF Best XI – WAFCON 2024:
GK: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria)
RB: Michelle Alozie (Nigeria)
CB: Portia Boakye (Ghana)
CB: Bambanani Mbane (South Africa)
LB: Karabo Dhlamini (South Africa)
CM: Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco) – Top Scorer (5 goals)
CM: Grace Asantewaa (Ghana)
CM: Refiloe Jane (South Africa)
RW: Rasheedat Ajibade (Nigeria) – Player of the Tournament
LW: Esther Okoronkwo (Nigeria)
ST: Ibtissam Jraïdi (Morocco)
Ghana claimed the bronze medal after edging South Africa, while Morocco finished runners-up on home soil. But it was Nigeria’s Super Falcons who stood tallest—both on the pitch and in CAF’s ultimate team list.
