|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Summary
Nigeria’s Super Falcons defeated defending champions South Africa 2-1 in a thrilling semi-final to reach the 2024 WAFCON final. The victory keeps their finals record intact and their hopes alive for a record-extending 10th continental title.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons have secured a 2-1 victory over defending champions South Africa to advance to the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), keeping alive their chances of winning a 10th continental title.
The semifinal clash at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca on July 22, 2025, saw Super Falcons take the lead just before half-time, with captain Rasheedat Ajibade calmly converting a penalty after South Africa’s Bambanani Mbane was penalised for a handball inside the box.
South Africa, however, fought back in the second half and equalised in the 60th minute when Linda Motlhalo scored from the spot after Osinachi Ohale fouled Hildah Magaia in the area. The goal marked Nigeria’s first conceded at the tournament, momentarily unsettling the nine-time champions.
The game looked to be heading into extra time until the 94th minute, when Michelle Alozie’s long delivery into the box sailed past South Africa’s keeper Andile Dlamini, sparking wild celebrations from the Nigerian bench.
Despite South Africa dealing with a late injury to Gabriela Salgado, they couldn’t hold off Nigeria’s late push.
The victory sets up a highly anticipated final against host nation Morocco on Saturday, July 26, in Rabat. The hosts advanced after a tense 4-2 penalty shootout win over Ghana following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
With this win, Nigeria remains unbeaten in WAFCON finals since the tournament’s inception in 1998. They will aim to cement their dominance on the continent with a 10th title.
