As the spotlight turns to Rabat?s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Saturday, July 26, anticipation is at an all-time high. Hosts Morocco will lock horns with record champions Nigeria in the final of the 2025 Women?s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), a showdown set to be a thrilling contest of talent, passion, and history.

This will be the fourth WAFCON meeting between the two nations. Morocco famously edged Nigeria on penalties in the 2022 semi-finals, also in Rabat. Now, the Atlas Lionesses seek a maiden continental title, buoyed by their home crowd. Meanwhile, Nigeria?s Super Falcons are chasing a record-extending tenth crown, having won nine of the last 12 editions.

As both teams prepare for this high-stakes battle, here are the key stars expected to shape the outcome of Saturday?s final.

Nigeria: Eyes on the Tenth Crown

The Super Falcons have dominated WAFCON 2025 with their trademark confidence. They topped Group B with seven points?dispatching Tunisia and Botswana and drawing with Algeria. A 5?0 thrashing of Zambia in the quarter-finals sent a statement, followed by a gritty extra-time win over South Africa in the semis.

Rasheedat Ajibade

The Atl?tico Madrid forward has been Nigeria?s standout performer, claiming three Woman of the Match awards?more than any other player at this year?s tournament. A 2018 WAFCON winner, Ajibade?s explosive pace, vision, and clinical finishing will be pivotal.

Chiamaka Nnadozie

Nigeria?s last line of defence has been formidable. Brighton & Hove Albion?s Nnadozie has conceded just once, a penalty against South Africa, and has showcased excellent leadership, shot-stopping, and command of her area.

Queen Esther Okoronkwo

In her WAFCON debut, Okoronkwo has impressed with one goal and four assists. Her creativity and off-the-ball movement have added a new layer to Nigeria?s attacking approach.

Chiwendu Ihezuo

With three goals to her name, Ihezuo is Nigeria?s top scorer. A constant aerial threat and relentless presence in the box, she could be the difference-maker.

Michelle Alozie

The Houston Dash defender sealed the semi-final victory with a dramatic extra-time winner against South Africa. Alozie?s composure, athleticism, and attacking instincts make her a dual threat.

After finishing as runners-up in 2022, Morocco are back in the final, more experienced and resolute. Under coach Reynald Pedros, they topped Group A, edged past Mali 3?1 in the quarter-finals, and booked their spot in the final by beating Ghana on penalties.

However, concerns remain over their defence, they?ve conceded in every match, six goals in total, and goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi is still chasing her first clean sheet of the tournament.

Ghizlane Chebbak

The 2022 WAFCON Best Player and current top scorer (4 goals) continues to inspire. The daughter of former Moroccan international Larbi Chebbak, she blends leadership with quality and will be Morocco?s heartbeat in midfield.

Ibtissam Jraidi

With three goals and an assist, Jraidi is a lethal finisher. Her movement and timing make her one of Morocco?s biggest attacking threats.

Yasmin Mrabet

A defensive midfielder with an eye for goal (2 goals), Mrabet anchors Morocco?s midfield. She?s essential in disrupting Nigeria?s rhythm and launching quick transitions.

Sakina Ouzraoui

Ouzraoui was instrumental in the semi-final win over Ghana, scoring and assisting in a standout performance. Her versatility makes her vital in both midfield and defence.

Kenza Chapelle

While she has just one goal, Chapelle adds width, energy, and flair. Her ability to unlock defences could prove crucial against Nigeria?s structured backline.

Saturday?s final promises fireworks. Nigeria have experience, structure, and star power; Morocco have momentum, home advantage, and a burning desire to make history. As the continent watches, these stars will aim to etch their names in WAFCON history. (BusinessDay)

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