Casablanca — Nigeria secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over defending champions South Africa in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semifinal on Tuesday, with Michelle Alozie scoring a late winner four minutes into injury time.
The Super Falcons took the lead through Rasheedat Ajibade’s first-half penalty before South Africa responded in the second half when Linda Motlhalo converted a spot-kick to level the match.
As extra time loomed, Alozie delivered a deep cross into the box that slipped past South African goalkeeper Andile Dlamini under pressure, sealing Nigeria’s place in the final.
Nigeria, record nine-time WAFCON champions, will face the winner of the second semifinal between hosts Morocco and Ghana scheduled later this week in Rabat.
Nigeria controlled much of the first half, with South Africa growing stronger after the break. Nigeria’s Ajibade opened the scoring from the penalty spot after Bambanani Mbane’s handball was spotted by referee Shamirah Nabadda. Despite Dlamini’s save attempt, the shot deflected into the net.
South Africa’s Motlhalo earned a penalty after Osinachi Ohale fouled Hildah Magaia in the box. After Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review, Motlhalo calmly scored, marking the first goal conceded by Nigeria in the tournament.
Banyana Banyana threatened to take the lead with several chances, including a goal-bound effort from Noxolo Cesane blocked on the line and a curling shot from Jermaine Seoposenwe over the crossbar as the game neared full time.
The match was marred by a severe leg injury to South Africa’s Gabriela Salgado during a scramble, leaving players and staff visibly shaken. Captain Refiloe Jane remained by Salgado’s side as she received treatment and was stretchered off.
Nigeria’s late goal ended South Africa’s hopes of defending their title, sending the Super Falcons through to another WAFCON final.
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