Oluwashina Okeleji BBC Sport, Warri

Nkwocha scored the winning goal to secure the title for her country

Nigeria beat Ghana 1-0 to win their fifth straight African Women's Championship (AWC) title in Warri on Saturday.

This latest victory means that the Super Falcons have won every title since the AWC began in 1998.

Reigning African Footballer of the Year Perpetua Nkwocha settled the drab encounter with a 14th minute strike, to make her the tournament's top scorer.

Ghana goalkeeper Gladys Enti failed to handle Ifeanyi Chijiene's cross and Nkwocha reacted by slotting into the net, to send the 25,000 home fans into raptures.

The Ghanaians started brilliantly with Adjoa Bayor directing affairs from the midfield.

Anita Amankwa had a glorious opportunity to put the Black Queens in the lead in the 9th minute thanks to a pass from Bayor.

But her attempt to lob the ball over onrushing goalkeeper Precious Dede went narrowly wide.

Ghana should have levelled the score in the 35th minute but Lydia Ankrah's ferocious strike also went wide.

The Black Queens pressed for the equaliser in the second half but substitute Florence Adutwumwaa and Amankwa failed to take advantage.

The Super Falcons could have doubled their lead late in the game with Nkwocha's cracking shot hitting the crossbar.

Keeper Anti managed to block the rebound from Chukwu.

Ghana fought hard to get an equaliser but Kikelomo Ajayi and Faith Ikidi defended well to prevent the onslaught of Saabi Ama and Okai Sheila.

Despite wining the game, Nigeria coach Effiom Ntiero paid tribute to the Black Queens for their bravery.

"They gave us a tough time which is good for the African game," Ntiero told BBC Sport.

"I think we worked hard for this cup and hope to take this same attitude to the world cup.

Ghana coach Isaac Paha was not disappointed with the performance of his players.

"They gave their best but one side had to win and unfortunately it turned to be the Nigerians," Paha said.

"I am impressed with the performance of the girls, again I congratulate Nigeria.

Both Ghana and Nigeria will now represent Africa at the Women's World Cup in China next year.

South Africa's Portia Modise was named Player of the Championship after she helped her side grab third place at the tournament by beating Cameroon 5-4 on penalties on Friday.

This was after the game ended 2-2 at regulation time in Oleh.

606 DEBATE: Give your thoughts on the match