Justine Madugu’s side outclassed arch-rivals and defending champions South Africa, while the Atlas Lionesses edged past the Black Queens in a thrilling penalty shootout to book their place in the final.
When both teams step onto the pitch at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat on Saturday, the title will be up for grabs; though with contrasting ambitions. Nigeria are chasing a record-extending 10th crown, dubbed ‘Mission X,’ while hosts Morocco are hoping to capture their first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title.
The former Atletico Madrid star admits the final won’t be easy, but insists her team will approach it with the same mindset that has kept them unbeaten throughout the tournament.
"First of all, we're truly grateful to have made it this far. Reaching the final is a blessing, but as always, we’re taking it one game at a time," Ajibade told Flashscore.com.
"This is the last and most important match of the tournament. We’re approaching it with the same confidence and focus that carried us through from the group stage. Nothing changes and that mindset and belief remain intact.
"We know this final will demand even more from us mentally, physically, emotionally, and tactically. To win, we must go beyond 100%, aiming to give 120, even 150%, because we’re up against the host nation.
"It will be intense, highly competitive, and challenging. But we commit the game into God’s hands, as we always do. We’ll play our part with everything we’ve got and trust Him to crown our efforts."
Saturday’s final marks the fourth meeting between Nigeria and Morocco at the biennial African showpiece. Their last encounter ended in a 1-1 draw, with Morocco edging the Super Falcons 5-4 on penalties in the semi-final of the previous edition.
Coach Jorge Vilda will be counting on the lethal duo of Ibtissam Jraidi and Ghizlane Chebbak to dim the Super Falcons’ shine.
Ajibade: National pride over personal glory
As team captain, Ajibade has been the driving force behind the Super Falcons’ impressive campaign.
The FC Robo great is firmly on course to be named WAFCON 2024 Player of the Tournament, having earned Player of the Match honours on three occasions; the latest coming in the semi-final win over South Africa.
Still, the 25-year-old remains humble, keeping her focus on the team’s ultimate goal rather than individual accolades.
"I’ve been honoured to receive three Player of the Match awards so far, and honestly, all I can say is: to God alone be the glory. I didn’t expect it, I wasn’t playing with that goal in mind," she continued.
"Every time I step onto the pitch, it’s simply to give my all alongside my teammates. I play with my spirit, soul, body and with every drop of sweat and every ounce of effort.
"Winning three awards is humbling, but it’s not just about me, it’s a team achievement. If I could, I’d share it with every one of my teammates because we did it together.
"This recognition is also for every young girl out there dreaming of becoming a professional footballer one day. I don’t take pride in my own strength, but in the power of God who is truly at work in me."
She added: "What matters most is Mission X and it goes beyond individual awards. This journey is all about teamwork, collective effort, and achieving a shared goal.
"What has sustained my consistency and impact throughout the tournament is nothing but God’s grace and mercy."
Ajibade, Nigeria’s joint-top scorer at the 2022 WAFCON, takes pride in captaining a team that blends seasoned veterans with exciting new talent.
"Leading the Super Falcons to the final of the 2024 WAFCON on this Mission X journey, I’m deeply grateful to God Almighty through our Lord Jesus Christ," Ajibade stated.
"It’s a mix of emotions and I feel excited, humbled, and truly blessed to be given the responsibility of captaining such an exceptional and inspiring squad.
"This is an honour I do not take for granted. While the weight of leadership is great, I’m thankful for the grace God has given me to carry it with strength and purpose."
Before making her senior international debut in 2018, Ajibade represented Nigeria at both U17 and U20 levels.
