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Nigeria’s Super Falcons have booked their place in the final of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a thrilling 2-1 victory over defending champions South Africa courtesy of Michelle Alonzie’s late winner in a tense semi-final clash on Tuesday evening.
The highly anticipated encounter, played at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, lived up to expectations, with both sides displaying grit, flair, and determination.
Nigeria took the lead just before halftime when Rasheedat Ajibade calmly slotted home from the penalty spot in the 45th minute, following a foul inside the box. The goal gave the Falcons a slim but crucial 1-0 lead going into the break.
South Africa suffered an early setback in the 26th minute as influential forward Hildah Magaia was forced off due to injury and was replaced by Thubelihle Makhubela, who added energy to the attack.
The Banyana Banyana came out stronger in the second half and were rewarded in the 60th minute when Linda Motlhalo converted a penalty after a Nigerian handball in the box, drawing the match level at 1-1.
As the match seemed destined for extra time, the Super Falcons delivered a late twist. In the fourth minute of stoppage time (90+4’), Michelle Alozie fired home a dramatic winner after being set up by Esther Okoronkwo, sending the Nigerian bench and fans into rapturous celebration.
Both teams made key substitutions in the second half, with the match becoming increasingly physical and fast-paced. However, it was Nigeria who showed greater composure and tactical discipline in the dying moments.
With the win, Nigeria continue their impressive run at the tournament and move one step closer to a record-extending 10th WAFCON title in Saturday.
The super falcons will now await the winner of the second semifinal game between the hosts Atlas Lionesses of Morocco and Black Queens of Ghana currently underway at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.