The highly anticipated semifinal clash at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium lived up to expectations, with both teams fighting hard for a place in the final.
Nigeria started the match strongly and took the lead in the first half through captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who calmly converted a brilliant team move. However, South Africa responded after the break, with Linda Motlhalo grabbing the equalizer on the hour mark.
Just when the game seemed destined for extra time, Michelle Alozie popped up with a stoppage-time winner, sending the Nigerian fans into wild celebrations.
Speaking after the tense encounter, Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu admitted it was a tough match but insisted his team fully deserved the win.
“Yes, it was a tough game, no doubt about that. Everyone knew it wasn’t going to be easy,” Madugu said.
“At the end of it all, what we desired was to win, and eventually that happened. So we’re happy we’ll be playing the finals.”
The result means Nigeria will now face hosts Atlas Lionesses of Morocco in the WAFCON 2024 final in Rabat on Saturday.
This victory also marks another chapter in the long-standing rivalry between Nigeria and South Africa. The Super Falcons have now beaten Banyana Banyana in three of their last four WAFCON meetings, cementing their status as Africa’s most dominant women’s team.
With the win, Nigeria remains on course for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title, while South Africa will have to settle for the third-place playoff.
