Super Falcons Soar To WAFCON 2024 Final With 2-1 Victory Over South Africa.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons secured their place in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a hard-fought 2-1 triumph over defending champions South Africa at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco, on Tuesday, 22 July 2025. The thrilling semi-final clash saw the nine-time champions overcome their fierce rivals, Banyana Banyana, to keep their pursuit of a record-extending 10th continental title alive, in what has been dubbed ‘Mission X’.
The match, a highly anticipated showdown between two African football powerhouses, lived up to its billing. Nigeria, unbeaten throughout the tournament, showcased their attacking flair and defensive resilience. The Super Falcons took the lead early when Rasheedat Ajibade found the back of the net from the penalty spot.
The team’s dominance continued, with captain Rasheedat Ajibade orchestrating play from midfield and creating several chances.
South Africa, who had not lost in regulation time at WAFCON since 2018, responded in the second half, equalising through a well-taken penalty in the 57th minute. The defending champions, buoyed by their penalty shootout victory over Senegal in the quarter-finals, pressed for a winner, with goalkeeper Andile Dlamini making crucial saves to keep Banyana Banyana in the contest. However, Nigeria’s relentless pressure paid off in dying minutes, as Michelle Alozie scored to restore t he Super Falcons’ lead.
The final minutes were tense, with South Africa throwing everything forward, but Nigeria’s defence, led by Osinachi Ohale and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, held firm to maintain their perfect record of not conceding from open play in the tournament. The victory marked Nigeria’s 13th consecutive WAFCON semi-final appearance, a testament to their enduring dominance in African women’s football.
Head coach Justin Madugu praised his team’s determination, saying, “The girls showed incredible focus and desire. South Africa are a formidable side, but we broke their streak because we believed in ourselves.” He highlighted the team’s preparation and familiarity with the Casablanca venue as key factors, while cautioning against complacency ahead of the final. “Mission X is not complete until we lift the trophy,” he added.
The Super Falcons’ path to the final has been marked by clinical performances, including a 5-0 demolition of Zambia in the quarter-finals, where Okoronkwo, Ihezuo, Ohale, Demehin, and Folashade Ijamilusi all found the net. Nigeria’s attack, with nine goals scored and none conceded across five matches, has been bolstered by the likes of Ajibade and Asisat Oshoala, who brought fresh energy off the bench.
South Africa’s coach, Desiree Ellis, acknowledged Nigeria’s quality, stating, “We knew it would be tough. They’re a well-oiled machine, but I’m proud of my players for fighting until the end.” Banyana Banyana’s seven-year unbeaten run in WAFCON regulation time came to an end, but their spirited performance underscored their growing stature in African football.
The victory sets up a blockbuster final on Saturday, 26 July 2025, where Nigeria will face either hosts Morocco or Ghana for the $1 million prize and the coveted WAFCON trophy. Fans across Nigeria are buzzing with excitement, with social media posts reflecting pride in the team’s commanding display. One supporter wrote, “The Super Falcons are unstoppable! Mission X is possible!” The win not only avenges Nigeria’s 2-1 group stage loss to South Africa in 2022 but also reasserts their dominance in a rivalry where they now hold a 9-3 win record over Banyana Banyana in WAFCON encounters.
As Nigeria prepare for the final, the focus remains on their attacking prowess and impenetrable defence. With a blend of experience and youthful energy, the Super Falcons are poised to reclaim the title they last won in 2018, bringing joy to millions of Nigerians and cementing their legacy as Africa’s most successful women’s football team.
