Nigeria find dramatic late winner to topple defending champs South Africa and reach WAFCON final

The Nigeria women’s national team have knocked out defending Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) champions South Africa to qualify for the final of the 2024 edition following Tuesday’s 2-1 semifinal victory at the Stade Larbi Zouali in Casablanca, Morocco.

Nigeria came out in the first half firing on all cylinders and broke the deadlock from the spot in the 45th minute when captain Rashidat Ajibade calmly slotted home a penalty kick.

The second half saw end to end action from both sides but it was the defending champions who bounced back as Osinachi Ohale’s error gave South Africa a penalty kick and allowed Banyana to get back into the match. Linda Motlhalo stepped up and sent Chiamaka Nnadozie the wrong way.

The Super Falcons left it late deep in second half stoppage time when Michelle Alozie fired in a beautiful ball into the box, leading to a goal mouth scramble that resulted in the dramatic match winner.

Nigeria will now take part in their 10th WAFCON final in a bid to make it ten out of ten in finals from the competition. The Super Falcons now wait to face either host Morocco or fellow West African side Ghana in the finals, with both teams set to face off later on Tuesday.