Chioma Okafor Breaks Silence: Why I Rejected Malawi For Super Falcons’ WAFCON Dream

Ahead of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final against host nation Morocco, set to kick off at 9 p.m. tonight, July 26, Okafor shared her thoughts in an interview with Ademola Victor TV.

Born to a Nigerian father and a Malawian mother, the University of Connecticut forward admitted the choice was far from easy.

“It wasn’t an easy decision,” she said. “I wanted to play with players who are better than I am. Malawi has potential and will improve over time, but I couldn’t keep waiting — the opportunity with Nigeria was right in front of me.”

If she makes an appearance — even briefly — in tonight’s final at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, she will officially earn her first cap for Nigeria, sealing her international allegiance.

While awaiting her debut, Okafor expressed deep appreciation for the unity and support within the Super Falcons camp.

“From the moment I arrived, the girls welcomed me like family. It feels like I have 23 sisters here. They’ve really looked out for me, and I’m so grateful for that,” she said.

Madugu Defends Benching Babajide

Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu addressed concerns over forward Rinsola Babajide’s limited playing time despite her impressive performance in the group stage. Babajide scored and assisted in Nigeria’s 3-0 win over Tunisia but has only played 13 minutes since then.

“This is about the team, not individuals,” Madugu explained. “She’s still contributing off the pitch — encouraging the squad and staying focused. Our choices are strategic, and she might still play a part in the final.”

Madugu has preferred using attackers like Folashade Ijamilusi, Chinwendu Ihezuo, and Esther Okoronkwo — a move that’s taken Nigeria to the brink of reclaiming their WAFCON crown.

Ayinde: ‘We’re Taking Back Our Title’

Veteran midfielder Halimat Ayinde, who plays for Rosenberg in Sweden, said the team is united in their determination to win the title they lost in 2022.

“This final is no different. We’re standing strong together and will fight for one another,” Ayinde affirmed.

Nigeria narrowly missed the title in 2022 after losing to Morocco on penalties in the semi-finals, paving the way for South Africa’s historic win. Tonight, they have a chance to reclaim their place at the top of African women’s football.