Nigeria’s Super Falcons booked their place in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final after a thrilling 2-1 victory over defending champions South Africa in Tuesday’s semi-final clash. The nine-time champions showed nerves of steel to secure a dramatic stoppage-time winner through Michelle Alozie after an intense battle against their arch-rivals.
The match started at a frenetic pace with both sides creating early chances. Nigeria broke the deadlock just before halftime when captain Rasheedat Ajibade coolly converted a penalty in the 45th minute after a South African player had handled the ball in the box from Ijamilusi’s cross. The Banyana Banyana had suffered an early setback when striker Hildah Magaia was forced off injured in the 26th minute.
South Africa came out stronger after the break and drew level on the hour mark through Linda Motlhalo’s penalty following a handball decision against Nigeria. As the game seemed destined for extra time with both teams tiring, Alozie emerged as the hero in the fourth minute of added time, firing home from close range after a clever assist from Okoronkwo to spark wild celebrations among the Nigerian contingent.
The victory extends Nigeria’s remarkable record in the competition, having now reached the final in 12 of the 14 WAFCON editions. Head coach Randy Waldrum will be particularly pleased with his team’s resilience after they weathered South Africa’s second-half pressure before delivering the knockout blow.
Nigeria will now face either Morocco or Zambia in Saturday’s final as they seek to add to their record haul of continental titles. The Falcons’ triumph also guarantees their place at next year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations while keeping alive their hopes of qualifying for the 2025 Olympics.
For South Africa, the defeat marks the end of their title defense, though they still have a chance to claim bronze in the third-place playoff. The match lived up to its billing as a clash of Africa’s top two women’s football nations, with Nigeria once again proving their continental supremacy when it matters most.
The Super Falcons’ victory sparked celebrations across Nigeria, with fans already looking forward to what would be a historic 10th WAFCON title if they can triumph in the final. This latest achievement reinforces Nigeria’s status as the dominant force in African women’s football.
