WAFCON Fallout: Plumptre Reveals Difficult Conditions in Morocco as VAR Controversy Dominates Discuss
In the wake of Nigeria’s historic 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title, Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre has spoken out about the tough conditions faced by the Nigerian squad during the tournament in Morocco.
Her revelations come as Moroccan fans and officials continue to contest the outcome of the final, blaming controversial VAR decisions for their 3–2 loss.
Speaking on the Sports Zone show on Lagos-based radio station @LagosTalks913, Plumptre described the behind-the-scenes challenges that the team battled throughout the competition.
According to her, the Super Falcons were stretched to their limits by a punishing schedule, delayed travel arrangements, and little time to recover between games.
“There was barely any time to regroup. It was exhausting, mentally and physically,” Plumptre said, reflecting on the team’s journey to the final. “But we never lost faith. Even when we were 2–0 down and Morocco was awarded a penalty, I still believed we’d find a way.”
The final, which saw Nigeria come from behind to beat host nation Morocco, has been mired in controversy. Moroccan fans and the country’s football federation have directed sharp criticism at officiating decisions during the match. Two specific VAR calls have drawn anger: a penalty awarded to Nigeria for handball by Nouhaila Benzina, and a Moroccan penalty that was later overturned after review for a foul by Nigeria’s Oluwatosin Demehin.
Morocco’s head coach, Jorge Vilda, has openly blamed the match officials for the outcome, calling the officiating “deeply flawed” and suggesting that the host nation was unfairly treated on home soil. The Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has since filed a formal protest with CAF, demanding accountability and a review of the refereeing process.
Despite the noise surrounding the match outcome, Plumptre chose not to engage with the refereeing debate. Instead, she focused on the grit and togetherness of the Nigerian team, who overcame significant odds to claim the title in Rabat.
“People only see the final result. They don’t know what went on behind closed doors—the sleepless nights, the travel delays, the pressure,” she added. “This team gave everything.”
Plumptre’s comments have drawn praise from fans and analysts alike, who view her remarks as a refreshing alternative to the escalating war of words between Morocco and tournament officials. Many see her account as a reminder of the human element of elite competition—where physical endurance, emotional strength, and team spirit can be just as important as tactics and talent.
Meanwhile, critics of Morocco’s protests argue that while the officiating may be debated, the North African team must also recognize the strength of Nigeria’s comeback and the character they showed in the final.
With CAF yet to issue a formal response to Morocco’s protest, the controversy is unlikely to fade quickly. However, for players like Plumptre, the focus remains on the resilience that led the Super Falcons to a hard-fought and well-earned championship.
Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title cements their status as the most successful women’s team on the continent—and, despite the noise, their victory has sparked fresh hope for the future of women’s football in the country.
