The Super Falcons of Nigeria have booked their place in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after edging out defending champions South Africa 2-1 in a tense semifinal clash on Tuesday evening.
Played at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium, the high-stakes encounter saw Nigeria take the lead through captain Rasheedat Ajibade before Michelle Alozie’s late strike sealed the win. The result keeps alive the Super Falcons’ pursuit of a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
Nigeria started the match on the front foot, dominating possession and creating several chances early on. However, a combination of poor finishing and South Africa’s disciplined defense meant the score remained goalless for much of the first half.
The breakthrough finally came just before the interval when Nigeria were awarded a penalty. Ajibade calmly converted from the spot, giving the Falcons a 1-0 lead at halftime.
South Africa responded early in the second half. A reckless challenge by Osinachi Ohale inside the box gifted Banyana Banyana a penalty, which Linda Motlhalo converted to bring the match level near the hour mark.
In response, Nigeria’s head coach Justin Madugu made tactical changes to re-energize the team, bringing on Christy Ucheibe for Jennifer Echegini and later substituting Halimatu Ayinde for Deborah Abiodun. The substitutions brought urgency, but the winning goal remained elusive.
Tensions rose in the closing stages as South Africa’s Gabriela Salgado suffered a concerning injury, forcing a temporary stoppage as she received treatment and was stretchered off.
With extra time looming, Nigeria found a dramatic winner. Michelle Alozie rose to the occasion, netting late to secure a 2-1 victory and send the Super Falcons into the final, ending South Africa’s title defense.
Nigeria will face the winner between morocco or Ghana who slots it out in the other semi-final
