Ajibade Named Best Player, Chebbak Claims Golden Boot in a Tournament of Icons
In an unforgettable finale to the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, held in Morocco, Rasheedat Ajibade of Nigeria and Ghizlane Chebbak of Morocco emerged as the tournament’s brightest stars. As the Super Falcons clinched their record 10th WAFCON title with a thrilling 3–2 win over the host nation in Rabat on Saturday, July 26, both captains left lasting marks on African football history.
Rasheedat Ajibade: Best Player of the Tournament
At just 25, Rasheedat Busayo Ajibade was officially crowned Best Player of the Tournament, leading Nigeria with composure, creativity, and relentless drive. Her performances throughout the competition were vital—scoring in the group stage, assisting the winning goal in the semifinals, and netting a decisive strike in the final. She also earned three Woman of the Match awards and was the undisputed heartbeat of the new-generation Super Falcons.
“Ajibade’s leadership and technical maturity belied her age. She carried Nigeria with grace and grit,” one CAF analyst remarked.
Ghizlane Chebbak: WAFCON 2024 Golden Boot Winner
Despite Morocco’s runner-up finish, 35-year-old Ghizlane Chebbak once again delivered an extraordinary tournament, securing the Golden Boot with five goals. Her goals included a stoppage-time equalizer against Zambia, a hat-trick against DR Congo, and consistent performances throughout the campaign.
Chebbak became the first Moroccan player to win the WAFCON Golden Boot twice, following her top-scorer title in 2022. Her influence remains central to Morocco’s rise as a continental powerhouse.
Rasheedat Ajibade: Nigeria’s Relentless Force in African Women’s Football
Leading Nigeria to Glory Again
Born December 8, 1999, in Lagos, Ajibade’s football story began on the streets of Mushin and rose through the ranks of FC Robo, Avaldsnes in Norway, and eventually Atlético Madrid in Spain. At WAFCON 2025, she led Nigeria to victory, not just with her talent, but her vision and leadership.
Midfield Mastery
Known for her blistering pace, technical footwork, and sharp decision-making, Ajibade is a creative force in midfield or on the wings. She controls the rhythm of matches and brings a clinical edge in front of goal.
Off the Field: Advocate and Mentor
Ajibade is also known for her social impact, leading the #StandOutWithRASH Initiative, a platform for mentoring young female athletes through education, equipment donations, and community programs.
“I want to be a light for others,” she said. “To show you can succeed on your own terms—with hard work, faith, and the right people around you.”
On the Verge of a New Chapter
With her contract at Atlético Madrid ending, she’s attracting interest from top clubs in England and France. But regardless of where she plays next, her mission is clear: raise the profile of African women’s football globally.
Ghizlane Chebbak: The Enduring Symbol of Moroccan Women’s Football
Legacy in the Making
Born February 22, 1990, in Casablanca, Chebbak was inspired by her father Larbi Chebbak, a former Moroccan international. After stints with Wydad, Raja, and ASFAR, she became a dominant force in domestic football—winning 10 league titles, 10 Throne Cups, and CAF Champions League gold.
International Icon
Chebbak debuted for Morocco in 2008 and helped transform the Atlas Lionesses into serious contenders. After guiding them to a runner-up finish at WAFCON 2022, she led the team to their first World Cup in 2023. In 2024, she claimed her second WAFCON Golden Boot, becoming a two-time top scorer in the tournament’s history.
On-Field Precision, Off-Field Power
Chebbak is renowned for her chip shots, creative instincts, and leadership presence. She’s also an advocate for youth development, often calling for better technical training and media coverage of the women’s game.
“If my parents hadn’t supported me, I would have remained confined by society’s expectations,” she once said.
Two Icons, One Continent, Shared Greatness
While one lifted the trophy and the other lifted the Golden Boot, Rasheedat Ajibade and Ghizlane Chebbak both proved that women’s football in Africa is rising to new heights—with passion, purpose, and global potential.
Their legacies are not just about statistics, but about inspiring a new generation of girls to dream—and to lead.
