Nigeria beat holders South Africa to reach Wafcon final
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Nigeria edge out South Africa 2-1 to book their spot in the WAFCON 2024 final.
Nigeria Edge South Africa in Stoppage Time to Reach WAFCON Final
Super Falcons Triumph in Dramatic Fashion
Nigeria secured a dramatic 2 1 victory over defending champions South Africa to book a place in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final. The semi-final clash in Casablanca ended in heartbreak for Banyana Banyana as Nigeria scored the winning goal deep into stoppage time, courtesy of a surprise delivery from right-back Michelle Alozie that eluded goalkeeper Andile Dlamini.
First-Half Advantage Through Penalty Conversion
The match began with both sides feeling each other out, but Nigeria soon gained the upper hand. The breakthrough came in the final moments of the first half when Folashade Ijamilusi’s shot struck the outstretched hand of Bambanani Mbane. The referee pointed to the spot, and Rasheedat Ajibade stepped up. Despite Dlamini getting a hand to the shot, Ajibade’s effort had enough power to push Nigeria ahead.
South Africa’s Equaliser Shifts Momentum
South Africa regrouped after the break and gained momentum, eventually earning a penalty of their own in the 60th minute. Osinachi Ohale was judged to have pulled down Hildah Magaia inside the box. Linda Motlhalo coolly slotted the ball into the net, sending Nigeria’s keeper the wrong way and levelling the scoreline.
Super Falcons Struggle to Regain Control
The equaliser disrupted Nigeria’s rhythm, and South Africa began to press higher. Their efforts nearly paid off when Noxolo Cesane came close to scoring in the 73rd minute, only for her effort to be cleared by Ohale. The game’s tempo was intense, with both teams showing signs of fatigue and determination in equal measure.
Late Injury Drama Adds to Tension
As the match entered the final minutes, South Africa suffered a setback when Gabriela Salgado was stretchered off after a clash in the box. Her injury led to an extended stoppage time period, setting the stage for a potential game-deciding moment.
Alozie’s Moment of Magic Wins the Match
With the clock ticking down, Michelle Alozie floated a hopeful cross into the box. The delivery, seemingly harmless, caused confusion in South Africa’s defence. Dlamini was distracted by the presence of two Nigerian forwards, and the ball sailed into the net untouched. Deborah Abiodun initially celebrated the goal, but replays confirmed that Alozie had scored directly from the cross.
South Africa’s Brave Effort Falls Short
Despite the loss, South Africa put up a valiant fight throughout the match. They overcame injuries and showed resilience but were ultimately undone by one moment of misjudgment. Their hopes of winning a second WAFCON title and reaching a third straight final were dashed. The result also casts uncertainty over the future of long-time coach Desiree Ellis, who has been at the helm for nine years.
Nigeria’s Mission X Still Alive
For Nigeria, the win keeps their mission to secure a record-extending 10th WAFCON title alive. Dubbed “Mission X”, their journey to reclaim the crown they last held in 2018 is on course. The Super Falcons now face host nation Morocco in Saturday’s final in Rabat. After a relatively easy 5 0 win over Zambia in the quarter-finals, this semi-final tested their resolve and they passed with grit and determination.
Final Awaits in Rabat
All eyes now turn to the final, where Nigeria will need to summon the same level of resilience and tactical awareness against a Moroccan side buoyed by home support. With the trophy in sight, the Super Falcons must prove once again why they are the most successful team in African women’s football history.
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