By Emeka Blast 
WAFCON 2024: Super Falcons Defeat South Africa
Nigeria’s Super Falcons have secured their place in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), defeating arch-rivals South Africa 2-1 in a thrilling semi-final clash at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. The victory, sealed by a sensational stoppage-time goal from Michelle Alozie, keeps alive Nigeria’s quest for a record-extending 10th continental title, dubbed “Mission X,” and avenges their 2022 loss to Banyana Banyana.
The match, billed as a “final before the final,” saw Nigeria take the lead in the 45th minute when captain Rasheedat Ajibade converted a penalty after a handball by South Africa’s Bambanani Mbane. South Africa equalized in the 60th minute through Linda Motlhalo’s penalty, awarded for a foul by Osinachi Ohale on Hildah Magaia, marking the first goal Nigeria conceded in the tournament. As the game appeared headed for extra time, Alozie’s 35-yard long ball in the 94th minute eluded goalkeeper Andile Dlamini, sparking wild celebrations among Nigerian fans. The final moments were marred by a serious injury to South Africa’s Gabriela Salgado, who was stretchered off with a suspected broken leg.
The Super Falcons, unbeaten and showcasing a formidable defense led by Ashleigh Plumptre and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, dominated possession and created numerous chances, with Esther Okoronkwo and Chinwendu Ihezuo testing Dlamini early. Substitutions, including Asisat Oshoala and Deborah Abiodun, bolstered Nigeria’s resolve. South Africa, despite their 2022 victory over Nigeria, struggled to match the Falcons’ intensity, with their attack faltering after Salgado’s injury.
Social media erupted with pride, with @NGSuper_Falcons tweeting, “90+4’ | GOOOOAAALLLLLLL!!! 🔥 Michelle Alozie sends a long ball forward and it ends up in the back of the net!”. @upuknews1 hailed the “epic win,” while @SouleFacts noted, “Alozie’s goal was a statement of Nigeria’s resilience.” The victory sets up a blockbuster final against hosts Morocco in Rabat on Saturday, July 26, after Morocco defeated Ghana 2-1 in the other semi-final. South Africa will face Ghana for third place.
Coach Justin Madugu praised his team’s determination, stating, “The girls showed they deserve respect. This win is for Nigeria.” The Super Falcons, who thrashed Zambia 5-0 in the quarter-finals, remain favorites to reclaim the title last won in 2018, with Okoronkwo’s four assists and Ihezuo’s three goals leading the charge.
