.Nigeria 2; South Africa 1
Nigeria’s Super Falcons had to fly higher before edging past defending champions, Banyana Banyana of South Africa in a pulsating semi-final clash at the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Tuesday evening.
With this hard-earned victory over their arch-rivals, Nigeria booked a place in the final while keeping hopes alive for a record-extending 10th continental title.
The match billed as a “final before the final,” by football pundits saw Captain Rasheedat Ajibade and Michelle Alozie delivered the goals when it mattered most, scoring either side of a Linda Motlhalo penalty to help Nigeria avenge their loss to the South Africans in 2022 and further confirm their dominance on African soil.
Skipper Rasheedat
Ajibade broke the deadlock just before the break with a composed finish from the penalty spot after a handball by Bambanani Mbane in the South African box.
The goal crowned Nigeria’s first-half superiority, as they dictated the tempo with a disciplined defence and sharp transitions, with Alozie and Ihezuo probing constantly.
Coming out fighting to defend their title in the second half, Banyana Banyana were rewarded in the 60th minute when Hildah Magaia was brought down by Osinachi Ohale, leading to a penalty.
Motlhalo made no mistake from the spot to level the scores and swing the momentum temporarily Banyana’s way.
However, just as extra time loomed in the horizon, Michelle Alozie struck a sensational long-range winner deep into stoppage time.
Her 35-yard effort swerved past goalkeeper Andile Dlamini and sparked wild celebrations among the Nigerian players and fans inside Stade Larbi Zaouli.
Despite tempers flaring and injuries mounting in the closing minutes with forward Chinwendu Ihezuo stretchered off and yellow cards flying, the Super Falcons remained resolute through nine minutes of stoppage time to seal victory and set up a mouthwatering final in Rabat against the winner between hosts, Morocco and Ghana.
So far, Nigeria have remained unbeaten in the tournament and will head into the final with renewed confidence.
For South Africa, with their title defence ending in heartbreak, they have a chance to go home with a medal from the third-place playoff.
Interestingly, Skipper Ajibade led by example in this match and all eyes are now on her to lead Nigeria to victory in the final come Saturday, July 26, 2025.
On the night, Ajibade was effervescent in her display. From winning the penalty for the Super Falcons to calmly converting it herself as well as keeping Banyana defenders on their toes, she enjoyed a good outing while emerging the Most Valuable Player (MVP) on the pitch.
Source: FOREFRONT NG
