The Super Falcons of Nigeria have sealed a spot in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), following a thrilling 2–1 victory over defending champions South Africa on Monday evening. The fiercely contested semi-final encounter, played in front of a charged crowd, lived up to its billing as the clash of titans in African women’s football.
The Nigerian side, nine-time champions of the tournament, showed grit and composure as they overcame a determined South African team that was hoping to defend the title they won in 2022. With the win, Nigeria is now set to make yet another historic appearance in the final of Africa’s biggest women’s football competition.
Early Pressure from Nigeria
The Super Falcons started the match on the front foot, pressing high and threatening the South African backline with every possession. Within the opening 12 minutes, Nigeria carved out two clear scoring chances that nearly broke the deadlock.
In the 11th minute, striker Chiwendu Ihezuo found herself with a golden opportunity after a brilliant through ball from Ashleigh Plumptre. However, South African goalkeeper Andile Dlamini was quick off her line to produce an outstanding save, tipping the ball away from danger.
Just moments later, Esther Okoronkwo attempted to capitalize on the momentum with a low, driven shot toward goal, but once again, Dlamini rose to the occasion with another timely stop, keeping the score level.
Despite Nigeria’s attacking dominance, South Africa maintained control in midfield, with smooth transitions and composed ball movement. However, their efforts failed to translate into clear-cut chances, as Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie remained largely untested during the first half.
Breakthrough from the Spot
With halftime looming and tensions rising, the Super Falcons were handed a lifeline in the 44th minute when South African defender Bongeka Gamede was penalized for a handball inside the box. Referee Salma Mukansanga of Rwanda did not hesitate to point to the spot after consulting VAR.
Stepping up for Nigeria was captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who demonstrated nerves of steel. She calmly converted the penalty with a low strike into the bottom corner. Although Dlamini managed to get a hand on the ball, the shot was too powerful to stop, giving Nigeria a deserved 1-0 lead heading into the break.
South Africa’s Response
The reigning champions came out in the second half with renewed intensity. Their patience paid off in the 60th minute when they were awarded a penalty of their own following a foul in the Nigerian box. Midfielder Linda Motlhalo confidently took the responsibility and slotted the ball past Nnadozie to level the score at 1-1.
The equaliser reignited the contest, with both sides trading blows in search of a winner. Nigeria’s coach Randy Waldrum made a series of tactical changes, bringing on fresh legs to regain control of the midfield battle.
South Africa, led by coach Desiree Ellis, continued to probe Nigeria’s defense, but were met with stubborn resistance from the backline marshaled by Osinachi Ohale and Plumptre, who both had standout performances.
Late Drama Seals the Win
As the match edged toward extra time, the Super Falcons showed no signs of letting the game slip away. In the final minute of stoppage time, right-back Michelle Alozie—who had been solid all game—ventured forward and unleashed a long-range effort from outside the box.
The ball curled magnificently into the top corner, beating Dlamini for the second time and sending the Nigerian bench into wild celebration. It was a moment of brilliance worthy of winning any match, and it sealed a famous win for the Super Falcons.
Reaction from the Camp
Speaking after the final whistle, Super Falcons head coach Randy Waldrum praised his players for their resilience and belief.
“This was a game between two great teams. We knew South Africa would come at us strong, but the girls stuck to the plan and showed character,” he said. “I’m especially proud of the way we handled the pressure in the closing stages. This is a big moment for Nigerian football.”
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade also expressed her excitement: “We came here with one goal—to make the final and bring the trophy home. The job is not done yet, but tonight was a huge step forward. Every player gave their all.”
Eyes on the Final
With the victory, Nigeria will now face either Morocco or Ghana in the final of the 2024 WAFCON. The two sides are scheduled to meet in the other semi-final match later today.
The Super Falcons’ quest for a record-extending tenth WAFCON title remains alive, and their performance against South Africa sends a strong message to their next opponents.
For South Africa, the defeat is a bitter pill to swallow, ending their hopes of back-to-back continental titles. However, coach Desiree Ellis commended her team’s effort despite the loss.
“It’s painful to lose this way, especially so late in the game, but I’m proud of how the team fought. Congratulations to Nigeria—they deserved the win,” Ellis said.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations has already delivered memorable moments, and Monday’s semi-final added another chapter to the Nigeria–South Africa rivalry. The Super Falcons showed why they remain a powerhouse in African women’s football, combining tactical discipline with individual brilliance when it mattered most.
With one match to go, Nigeria stands on the brink of continental glory once again. Whether they will lift the trophy remains to be seen, but for now, the focus shifts to the final—and the chance to etch another golden page into their illustrious history.
