In a dramatic and pulsating semifinal clash at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, the Super Falcons of Nigeria edged defending champions South Africa 2-1, thanks to a stunning stoppage-time goal from defender Michelle Alozie.
The victory sends Nigeria into the WAFCON final and puts them on the brink of a record-extending tenth continental title.
The match, played under intense heat and high stakes, lived up to its billing as a clash between two of Africa’s footballing powerhouses. Both teams displayed grit, tactical discipline, and flashes of brilliance in a game that swung from end to end.
Nigeria began the contest with urgency and dominated early proceedings. The Falcons threatened repeatedly, with close efforts thwarted by Banyana Banyana’s resilient backline. A goal-line clearance and a string of smart saves kept the scoreline level for much of the first half.
However, the deadlock was broken in the 44th minute when Nigeria captain Rasheedat Ajibade converted a penalty. The spot kick was awarded after South African defender Sibulele Holweni handled Folashade Ijamilusi’s cross inside the box. Ajibade made no mistake from 12 yards, giving Nigeria a deserved 1-0 lead going into halftime.
South Africa regrouped after the break and came out with renewed determination. Their pressure paid off in the 56th minute when they won a penalty of their own. Nigerian defender Osinachi Ohale was adjudged to have brought down Thembi Kgatlana inside the area. Linda Motlhalo stepped up and slotted the ball confidently past goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie to level the score.
As the game progressed, both sides made attacking substitutions in a bid to avoid extra time. South Africa looked the likelier to score in the dying minutes, but Nigeria held firm and struck at the death.
In the 94th minute, substitute Esther Okoronkwo delivered a perfectly weighted pass to Michelle Alozie, who launched a speculative long ball that floated past everyone—including South African goalkeeper Kaylin Swart—and bounced into the net. The late goal stunned the South African defense and sparked wild celebrations among Nigerian players and supporters.
The final whistle confirmed Nigeria’s place in yet another WAFCON final, as they continue their quest for a historic tenth title. The Super Falcons will face either host nation Morocco or West African rivals Ghana in the championship match.
Nigeria’s coach, Randy Waldrum, praised the team’s resilience: “It was a tough battle. South Africa pushed us all the way, but the girls showed great character. Now, we focus on finishing the job.”
The final promises to be another fierce contest, but with the Falcons in this kind of form, their dream of another continental crown remains firmly within reach.
