Super Falcons Soar into WAFCON final after dramatic 2-1 win over South Africa

Nigeria have sealed their place in the final of the 13th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, setting the stage for a shot at a record 10th title after edging defending champions South Africa 2-1 in a tense and tactical semi-final clash in Casablanca.

The match was a high-stakes chess game played on grass, with both teams battling fiercely in midfield and across the flanks.

Nigeria were nearly ahead early on as Chinwendu Ihezuo’s strike in the 8th minute was brilliantly parried by veteran goalkeeper Andile Dlamini.

Moments later, Esther Okoronkwo and Ihezuo again tested South Africa’s resolve, but their efforts were denied.

South Africa came close in the 44th minute but squandered the chance.

Just a minute later, Nigeria capitalized on a handball in the box, and Rasheedat Ajibade coolly converted from the spot to make it 1-0, reprising her penalty heroics from the Paris 2024 qualifiers.

Momentum swings early in the second half, Dlamini spilled a cross from Ajibade, but Ihezuo couldn’t pounce.

On 56 minutes, Osinachi Ohale fouled South Africa’s Dhlamini, leading to a penalty expertly slotted home by Linda Motlhalo to bring the score level.

Substitute Cesane nearly handed South Africa the lead, but Ohale came up clutch with a goal-line clearance.

The tension mounted with close chances from Seoposenwe and a worrying injury to Gabriela Salgado.

Michelle Alozie sent a looping long ball that evaded everyone. With Dlamini caught off-guard, the ball slipped into the net untouched, triggering wild celebrations.

This victory marks Nigeria’s first win over Banyana Banyana in the last three WAFCON meetings. Now unbeaten in the tournament, the Super Falcons soar into the final with history in sight and vengeance sweetly served.

The reigning champions bow out in heartbreak but will rally for the third-place playoff.