Nigeria’s Mission X rolls into Casablanca: Falcons poised to end Banyana’s title reign
The Super Falcons of Nigeria are ready to write another chapter in their historic Women AFCON journey as they lock horns with defending champions South Africa in Tuesday’s semi-final clash in Casablanca.
In their glittering 27-year run at the tournament, the Falcons have never missed a semi-final, and they breezed past Zambia with a commanding 5–0 quarter-final victory that reaffirmed their dominance. Meanwhile, South Africa’s Banyana Banyana, perennial rivals on the continental stage, are bracing for yet another uphill battle against their old nemesis.
Though the Banyana have made strides in recent years—including wins at the 2018 and 2022 editions—they’ve mostly suffered heartbreak against Nigeria. Their historic record includes heavy defeats like 7–1 and 5–0, and a painful penalty shootout loss in the 2018 final.
The two sides have met 25 times since 1995, with Nigeria claiming victory in 15 matches and South Africa managing four wins and six draws. The Falcons also recently denied the Banyana a spot at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, securing a long-awaited return to the global stage.
Star forward Chinwendu Ihezuo is in hot pursuit of the tournament’s Golden Boot, sitting just one goal behind Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak and Senegal’s Nguenar Ndiaye.
As debate rages over who truly rules African women’s football, all eyes will be on the Larbi Zaouli Stadium this Tuesday for a high-voltage semi-final that promises drama, flair, and legacy-defining moments.
