Jennifer Echegini will obviously never forget the moment she scored the goal that crowned Nigeria’s thrilling comeback in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 final.
In what was the biggest night of her career so far, the 24-year-old midfielder helped the Super Falcons lift the 2024 WAFCON—and her first ever, Footballrover reports.
Jennifer Echegini’s Goal Seals First Super Falcons Trophy in Seven Years
With just two minutes left on the clock, Echegini latched onto a perfectly delivered free kick from Esther Okoronkwo and swept it into the back of the net, completing a stunning 3-2 comeback against Morocco.
The WAFCON 2024 final had started with heartbreak, as hosts Morocco went 2-0 up before halftime through goals from Ghizlane Chebbak and Sanaa Mssoudy.
But Nigeria refused to give up. Okoronkwo reduced the deficit from the spot before turning provider for both Echegini’s winner and the equaliser that came earlier in the second half.
Speaking after the emotional win, Jennifer Echegini told Julie Sports:
— “I’m just going to carry this moment close to me. If I’m ever doubting myself as a player, I just think of this to encourage me and give me confidence.”
“You Absolutely Have Nothing to ”Lose”—Echegini on Halftime Mindset
Nigeria’s path to their record-extending 10th continental title seemed uncertain at halftime. But the players came out firing in the second half—driven by belief and nothing to lose.
— “We’re 2-0 down in the final; it’s halftime, and you absolutely have nothing to lose. It’s either you play with fear and you lose the game, or you put everything into the game and you hope you win—and we did so,” said Echegini.
Her late winner not only clinched victory but also made history, as the Super Falcons ended the tournament unbeaten.
The final was extra special for Echegini, as it marked the first Super Falcons trophy of her professional career.
— “It’s my first trophy I’ve ever won in my career, so definitely a memorable one that I’ll keep in my heart forever,” she concluded.
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