By WAFCON 2024
Super Falcons edge Banyana Banyana in semi-final thriller
Summary
- Nigeria defeat South Africa 2–1 in dramatic WAFCON 2024 semi-final clash in Casablanca
- Rasheedat Ajibade and Michelle Alozie score for Super Falcons, with Linda Motlhalo netting for Banyana Banyana
- Victory keeps Nigeria’s “Mission X” alive as they chase a record 10th continental title
- South Africa’s title defence ends after a valiant performance despite key player absence and fatigue
Casablanca, Morocco — The Super Falcons of Nigeria secured a dramatic 2–1 win over South Africa’s Banyana Banyana in a gripping semi-final encounter at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), played on 22 July 2025 at the Prince Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco.
Rasheedat Ajibade opened the scoring for Nigeria with a calmly taken penalty in the 44th minute, following a foul in the South African box. Linda Motlhalo replied for the defending champions from the spot in the 59th minute to level the tie.
However, with extra time looming, Michelle Alozie struck in the 94th minute, sealing the victory for Nigeria and sending them to the final, where they will face either Ghana or hosts Morocco on 26 July.
Nigeria, led by coach Justin Madugu, entered the match unbeaten and had not conceded a goal in the tournament until this semi-final. Their path to the last four included a dominant 5–0 quarter-final win over Zambia.
Against South Africa, the Super Falcons relied on a solid 4–3–3 setup, quick transitions, and disciplined defending, with goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie commanding the backline.
South Africa, the 2022 champions coached by Desiree Ellis, battled fatigue after a gruelling 120-minute quarter-final against Senegal. Missing star striker Thembi Kgatlana, they struggled in attack but remained competitive thanks to strong performances from Motlhalo and goalkeeper Andile Dlamini.
The clash marked the 12th WAFCON meeting between the continental rivals, with Nigeria reasserting their dominance after South Africa’s group stage victory over them in 2022.
With this win, Nigeria’s quest for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title continues, while South Africa exit the tournament with pride after a hard-fought campaign.
