Nigeria’s Super Falcons will battle host nation Morocco in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Saturday, July 26, after securing a hard-fought 2-1 semi-final victory over South Africa in Casablanca.
The win puts Nigeria on the verge of a historic 10th WAFCON title, extending their record as the most successful team on the continent.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade opened the scoring in the first half from the penalty spot, while Michelle Alozie delivered the winning goal deep into stoppage time. South Africa had earlier drawn level through Linda Motlhalo, who converted a second-half penalty.
At the Stade Larbi Zaouli, the Falcons dominated early proceedings, with Ashleigh Plumptre and Esther Okoronkwo both testing South African goalkeeper Andile Dlamini with dangerous efforts.
Despite Nigeria’s early pressure, South Africa grew into the game and began to control possession. However, the breakthrough came in the 43rd minute when Nigeria were awarded a penalty for a handball by Bomgeka Gamede. Ajibade made no mistake, sending Dlamini the wrong way.
The South Africans responded in the second half when Osinachi Ohale fouled Thembi Kgatlana inside the box. Motlhalo converted the resulting penalty in the 60th minute to level the score.
With the match seemingly headed for extra time, Alozie’s speculative cross in the 93rd minute floated over everyone and found the back of the net — sealing a dramatic win and sending Nigeria into the final.
In the day’s other semi-final, Morocco edged past Ghana 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time, setting up a final clash between the continent’s most decorated side and the ambitious hosts.
The Super Falcons remain unbeaten in WAFCON finals since the competition began in 1998, and will look to continue that record when they face Morocco for the trophy.
