Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie has been crowned Best Goalkeeper of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), following a series of outstanding displays that proved instrumental in guiding the Super Falcons to the final of the tournament.

The 23-year-old shot-stopper was a pillar of strength for the Nigerian team, demonstrating composure, agility, and exceptional shot-stopping ability throughout the competition.

From the very first match of the group stage, Nnadozie commanded her area with authority, organised her defence effectively, and made a string of decisive saves that kept Nigeria in contention during key moments.

Her influence became even more prominent in the knockout stages, particularly during Nigeria’s tense semi-final clash against South Africa.

 In a match where defensive discipline was paramount, Nnadozie stood firm under intense pressure, producing crucial saves that helped preserve Nigeria’s lead and secure their place in the final.

Beyond her technical skills, Nnadozie’s vocal leadership and calm presence at the back were vital in keeping the Super Falcons organized against some of the continent’s top attacking sides.

Her performances did not go unnoticed, with CAF officially recognising her as the tournament’s best goalkeeper — a fitting reward for her consistency and match-winning contributions.

The award adds to Nnadozie’s growing list of accolades and cements her reputation as one of Africa’s finest goalkeepers. Already regarded as a role model for aspiring female footballers across the continent, her exploits at WAFCON 2024 have further solidified her legacy in Nigerian football.

As the Super Falcons celebrated a triumphant tournament campaign, Nnadozie’s heroics stood out as a defining factor in Nigeria’s success and a beacon of inspiration for the next generation of African goalkeeping talent.

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Moroccan captain Ghizlane Chebbak has once again etched her name into African football folklore, claiming the Golden Boot at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a dazzling campaign on home soil.

The 34-year-old forward scored five goals during the tournament to secure the PUMA Golden Boot—becoming the competition’s top scorer for a second consecutive edition, following her earlier triumph at WAFCON 2022. In doing so, she becomes only the second player in the tournament’s history to achieve back-to-back top scorer honours.

Chebbak’s latest accolade adds another chapter to a remarkable career that mirrors the legacy of her father, Larbi Chebbak, a member of Morocco’s victorious 1976 Africa Cup of Nations squad.

While Larbi made his mark in the men’s game, Ghizlane has become a trailblazer in women’s football, inspiring a new generation of Moroccan players.

Chebbak wasted no time in asserting her influence at the tournament. She delivered a commanding performance in Morocco’s opening match against Zambia and truly stole the spotlight in the group clash against the Democratic Republic of Congo, where she netted a clinical hat-trick, showcasing her lethal combination of movement, technique, and finishing ability.

Even in games where she didn’t score, such as against Mali and Ghana, her leadership and influence were undeniable.

Whether through precise link-up play or her vocal presence on the field, Chebbak remained the heartbeat of the Atlas Lionesses throughout the tournament.

A Goal to Remember

Chebbak’s defining moment came in the final against Nigeria at the Stade Olympique in Rabat. Just 13 minutes into the match, she collected the ball on the edge of the area, controlled it expertly, and fired a low shot past Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie to give Morocco an early lead in a match that would finish 3-2 in favour of the Super Falcons.

Though Morocco ultimately fell short, Chebbak’s strike highlighted her enduring class and big-match temperament.

A Lasting Legacy

By winning her second WAFCON Golden Boot, Chebbak has further solidified her legacy as one of the continent’s all-time greats. Her contributions transcend the pitch—she is a mentor, a symbol of progress, and a leading figure in the rise of women’s football in Morocco.

As the Moroccan Football Federation continues to invest in the women’s game, Chebbak’s impact as both a player and role model will resonate for years to come.

And with performances like those in Morocco 2024, the veteran forward has shown she still has plenty more to offer.

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While South Africa’s Banyana Banyana fell short of defending their title at the 13th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), they bowed out with honour, earning the prestigious Fair Play Award for their exemplary conduct throughout the tournament in Morocco.

The award, bestowed by the CAF Technical Study Group, is based on a detailed points system that evaluates on-field behaviour, respect for opponents and officials, and overall positive commitment. South Africa tallied an impressive 510 points — a testament to their discipline, sportsmanship, and unwavering respect for the spirit of the game.

A Team That Embodies Sporting Values

Under the guidance of head coach Desiree Ellis, South Africa once again demonstrated why they remain one of the most respected sides in African women’s football. Refiloe Jane and her teammates maintained remarkable composure throughout the competition — avoiding reckless challenges, refraining from excessive protests, and upholding the values of fair competition, even during high-stakes encounters.

Their measured response during tense moments, including the goalless quarterfinal against Senegal (which they won on penalties) and a dramatic semifinal loss to Nigeria, highlighted their maturity and sportsmanship. Despite narrowly missing out on the final, Banyana Banyana’s gracious acceptance of defeat earned them widespread admiration.

A Solid Sporting Campaign

On the pitch, South Africa once again proved their quality. Drawn in Group C, they opened their campaign with a confident 2-0 win over Ghana, followed by a 1-1 draw with Tanzania. A resounding 4-0 victory over Mali secured their place in the quarterfinals.

In the knockout stage, they edged Senegal via penalties after a goalless draw, showcasing tactical intelligence and emotional control. Although their bid to reach a second consecutive final was halted by Nigeria in a narrow 2-1 semifinal defeat, South Africa’s performance reinforced their status as one of the continent’s elite teams.

A Culture of Respect and Discipline

This is not the first time South Africa has been recognised for its ethical approach to football. Under the leadership of Desiree Ellis — a former captain and three-time CAF African Women’s Coach of the Year — Banyana Banyana have cultivated a culture rooted in teamwork, discipline, and mutual respect.

The Fair Play Award at WAFCON 2024 serves as a fitting tribute to a team that consistently values honour over hostility, and who continue to set a standard both on and off the field.

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