Jennifer Echegini: Winning the Wafcon is on another level. The pride I felt'

"Winning the Wafcon is on another level, you know? The pride and the achievement that I felt when you're playing with a group of girls that you love and care for, it makes it even more special. Overcoming a 2-0 first-half deficit to win 3-2 took every ounce of skill, resilience and fortitude."

"We kind of just went [into the second half] with the mindset that it's all or nothing—you either give everything and maybe get something out of it, or you don't fight, and you then look back, wishing you had. We just went out with that mindset and gave everything."

"I already knew Nigerians do things big, but when you experience it, it's on another level. Being someone who grew [up] outside Nigeria and not so much into the Nigerian culture, it's always beautiful to see how things get done. Without them, winning the tournament wouldn't have been as special."

Jennifer Onyinyechi Echegini, a 24-year-old midfielder for Paris Saint-Germain, reflects on Nigeria's historic victory at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The team overcame a 2-0 first-half deficit to win 3-2, securing Nigeria's record 10th African title. Echegini emphasizes the emotional significance of winning with teammates she loves and cares for. The team's second-half comeback required complete commitment and resilience. Upon returning to Nigeria, the players received an overwhelming national reception at Aso Rock in Abuja, where the government promised each player $100,000 and a house, though these pledges remain unfulfilled. Echegini expresses gratitude for the nation's support and describes the celebration as deeply meaningful.

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