Nigeria Romps into WAFCON Finals with Victory over South Africa

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have secured their spot in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final with a captivating 2-1 triumph over South Africa, courtesy of a 94th-minute winner by Michelle Alozie during Tuesday’s semifinal showdown in Casablanca.

The match commenced with Nigeria exerting high pressure, inducing early errors and nearly capitalizing on a mishandled freekick from Alozie.

Following sustained pressure, Nigeria seized the lead just before the interval when Bambanani Mbane was penalized for a handball while obstructing Folashade Ijamilusi within the penalty area.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade executed the ensuing penalty with composure, granting the Falcons a 1-0 advantage at halftime.

South Africa retaliated in the 60th minute, with Linda Motlhalo equalizing from the penalty spot after Osinachi Ohale clumsily fouled Hildah Magaia inside the box.

The goal marked the first conceded by Nigeria in the tournament, temporarily shifting momentum in favor of Banyana Banyana.

Both teams fervently sought a winner in a tense and physical contest, with opportunities arising for Nigeria’s Jennifer Echegini, Esther Okoronkwo, and Chinwendu Ihezuo, while Jermaine Seoposenwe and substitute Noxolo Cesane posed threats for South Africa.

Nigeria goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie remained vigilant, while defenders Ohale and Ashleigh Plumptre made crucial interventions.

Tragedy struck in the 84th minute when South Africa’s Gabriela Salgado suffered a serious leg injury while contesting a set piece, leading to poignant scenes as teammates were moved to tears, with even Nigerian fans joining in chanting her name in solidarity.

With extra time looming and South Africa shaken, Nigeria intensified their efforts. A cross from Alozie, launched from deep, incited chaos in the Banyana box.

Although Deborah Abiodun failed to make a clean contact, her presence distracted goalkeeper Andile Dlamini.

Fikile Magama was unable to clear off the line, allowing the ball to creep in for Alozie’s unforgettable winner.

This victory places Nigeria within reach of a record 10th WAFCON title, reaffirming their supremacy in African women’s football following their fourth-place finish in the 2022 edition.

South Africa, the defending champions, depart with pride intact but will be concerned for Salgado’s condition after the heartrending conclusion to their campaign.