By Deborah Nnamdi
Nigeria’s Super Falcons secured a dramatic 2-1 win over defending champions South Africa on Tuesday night, earning their spot in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final.
Michelle Alozie was the hero, netting a stunning 94th-minute winner in a tense semifinal clash in Casablanca.
The match started with Nigeria on the front foot, pressing aggressively and forcing early errors from Banyana Banyana. They nearly took advantage of a mishandled free kick by Alozie, setting the tone for a high-intensity battle.
The breakthrough came just before halftime. South Africa’s Bambanani Mbane was penalized for a handball in the box while blocking a driving run from Folashade Ijamilusi.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade stepped up and coolly dispatched the penalty, giving the Super Falcons a 1-0 lead at the interval.
South Africa responded in the second half. In the 60th minute, Linda Motlhalo converted a penalty of her own after Osinachi Ohale fouled Hildah Magaia in the area — the first goal Nigeria had conceded all tournament.
Momentum briefly shifted to the South Africans, but both sides battled fiercely for a winner in an increasingly physical and open contest. Nigeria created chances through Jennifer Echegini, Esther Okoronkwo, and Chinwendu Ihezuo, while Jermaine Seoposenwe and substitute Noxolo Cesane threatened at the other end.
Chiamaka Nnadozie was called into action several times in the Nigerian goal, with defenders Ohale and Ashleigh Plumptre making vital blocks to keep the score level.
The game took a tragic turn in the 84th minute when South Africa’s Gabriela Salgado suffered a serious leg injury while contesting a set piece. The distressing scene brought the match to a brief halt, with players from both sides visibly emotional. In a touching moment, Nigerian fans joined South African supporters in chanting Salgado’s name in support.
As extra time loomed and South Africa was still visibly shaken, Nigeria surged forward. Alozie swung in a deep cross that sparked chaos in the box. Though Deborah Abiodun failed to make clean contact, her presence was enough to distract goalkeeper Andile Dlamini.
Fikile Magama’s attempted clearance failed to stop the ball, which trickled over the line for Alozie’s decisive goal.
The victory sends Nigeria to the WAFCON final and within reach of a record-extending 10th continental title, a powerful statement after a disappointing fourth-place finish in 2022.
For South Africa, the defeat marks the end of their title defense. They exit with pride, but concerns will linger over Salgado’s injury after an emotional conclusion to their campaign.
