The Super Falcons of Nigeria on Tuesday advanced to the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco with a dramatic 2-1 victory over South Africa, sealed by a stoppage-time goal from defender Michelle Alozie.
With the semifinal clash appearing destined for extra time, Alozie delivered a lofted ball into the South African box in the 94th minute. The ball evaded everyone—including the goalkeeper—and nestled into the net, stunning the Banyana Banyana defence and sending the Nigerian bench into wild celebrations.
The late winner secured Nigeria’s place in the final and capped off a thrilling contest between two African powerhouses.
What had been billed as a battle of giants—defending champions South Africa against nine-time winners Nigeria—certainly lived up to expectations. The encounter was tense and finely balanced, with both teams pushing hard for an edge.
The Super Falcons began the match on the front foot, dominating the early exchanges. However, their efforts were kept at bay by a goal-line clearance and several key saves from the resilient South African backline.
Nigeria’s breakthrough came in the 44th minute after a cross from Folashade Ijamilusi struck the hand of a South African defender inside the penalty area. The referee pointed to the spot, and team captain Rasheedat Ajibade stepped up to calmly convert the resulting penalty.
Ajibade’s strike was the difference as the Falcons went into halftime with a 1–0 lead.
South Africa emerged stronger in the second half, applying pressure and controlling possession. Their persistence paid off in the 56th minute when they were awarded a penalty after Osinachi Ohale was adjudged to have pulled down a South African attacker inside the box. Linda Motlhalo made no mistake from the spot, sending goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie the wrong way to level the score.
Both coaches made strategic substitutions in search of a winner, and just when extra time seemed inevitable, Nigeria struck again.
Michelle Alozie latched onto a setup from substitute Esther Okoronkwo and delivered the decisive blow in the dying seconds of stoppage time.
With the victory, the Super Falcons remain on course for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title. They will face the winner of the other semifinal between host nation Morocco and regional rivals Ghana in the final.
