Morocco Challenges Referee Call After Super Falcons’ WAFCON Triumph

The Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has lodged a formal complaint with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over alleged officiating errors in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final, where Nigeria’s Super Falcons mounted a stunning comeback to defeat Morocco 3-2.

According to Morocco World News, the FRMF is contesting a key incident in the 82nd minute when Nigerian defender Tosin Demehin was flagged for a handball in the box. The referee initially awarded a penalty, but later reversed the decision after consulting the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), sparking outrage on the Moroccan bench.

Morocco’s head coach Jorge Vilda, who previously led Spain to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup title, voiced his disappointment after the match, stating, “It was a small detail that cost us the game.” Though generally cautious about officiating debates, Vilda also acknowledged that fatigue contributed to his side’s second-half collapse.

The final, held at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, saw the hosts take an early 2-0 lead. But Nigeria responded with a spirited fightback, as goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and substitute Jennifer Echegini secured the Super Falcons’ record-extending 10th WAFCON title.

Nigeria’s head coach Justine Madugu credited halftime tactical adjustments for the turnaround, saying, “The substitutions made a significant difference,” while praising Morocco for their strong start.

The defeat makes Morocco the first host nation to lose consecutive WAFCON finals, following their 2022 loss to South Africa.

Meanwhile, in the third-place playoff, Ghana’s Black Queens defeated South Africa’s Banyana Banyana on penalties after a 1-1 draw.