Morocco has lodged an official petition against Nigeria at the Confederation of African Football (CAF), challenging the eligibility of two key players who featured in the Super Falcons’ squad that clinched the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.
TJ Sports Nigeria learnt that the petition specifically targets Ashleigh Plumptre and Michelle Alozie, both of whom were instrumental in Nigeria’s 3-2 victory over Morocco in the tournament final held on Saturday.
Background of the Protest
Prior to the final match, officials from the Moroccan camp reportedly filed a formal protest, questioning the nationality switch processes of Plumptre and Alozie. The Moroccan Football Federation claims there were procedural irregularities in the players’ documentation and status approvals.
- Ashleigh Plumptre was born in England and began her international career with England youth teams before switching allegiance to Nigeria. She was cleared by FIFA in 2021 after providing proof that her paternal grandfather was Nigerian.
- Michelle Alozie, on the other hand, was born in the United States to Nigerian immigrant parents and opted to represent Nigeria at the senior level.
Also Read: Alozie’s Late Strike Sends Super Falcons to WAFCON 2025 Final
Morocco argues that both players’ eligibility lacks full compliance with CAF and FIFA nationality rules and demands that Nigeria be stripped of the title on the grounds of fielding ineligible players.
NFF Responds: Protest “Dead on Arrival”
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has dismissed the protest as frivolous and without merit. A senior official within the federation, who asked not to be named, described the move by Morocco as “dead on arrival,” insisting that both players went through due process under FIFA’s eligibility framework.
“There’s nothing to worry about. Both players were cleared by FIFA before they ever wore the Nigerian jersey. This is just sour grapes,” the source said.
CAF Yet to Issue Formal Response
As of press time, CAF has not issued a formal statement regarding the petition. However, sports law experts note that overturning a continental title based on eligibility disputes is rare, especially when prior FIFA clearances exist.
The development is the latest in a series of post-tournament controversies surrounding WAFCON 2025, which was hailed for its high level of competition and dramatic finale.
Implications for Nigerian Football
If CAF entertains Morocco’s claims, it could potentially trigger a review process. However, given FIFA’s documented clearance for both Plumptre and Alozie, any sanctions are considered highly unlikely by legal analysts.
For now, Nigeria maintains its position as WAFCON champions, having won a record-extending 12th title in Casablanca on July 26.
