Super Falcons Soar, Defeats South Africa 2-1 to Reach WAFCON Final
n a pulsating semi-final clash at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), Nigeria’s Super Falcons edged past South Africa’s Banyana Banyana with a dramatic 2-1 victory to book their place in the tournament final.
The much-anticipated encounter lived up to expectations, delivering intensity, tactical brilliance, and a last-gasp winner that left fans at the edge of their seats.
The Super Falcons began the game on the front foot, showing determination and fluid attacking play. Their efforts paid off in the 45th minute when winger Rasheedat Ajibade calmly converted a penalty after a handball inside the South African box. The goal gave Nigeria a 1-0 lead heading into half-time and a psychological advantage.
The second half saw a rejuvenated South African side pressing hard for an equalizer. Their pressure was rewarded in the 60th minute when Linda Motlhalo stepped up to convert a penalty after Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie was penalized for a challenge inside the area. The scoreline read 1-1, setting up a nervy final 30 minutes.
Just when it seemed the game was heading for extra time, Nigerian defender Michelle Alozie produced a moment of magic in stoppage time. A hopeful long ball forward took an awkward bounce and found the back of the net, catching the South African goalkeeper off-guard. The 90+4th minute goal sparked wild celebrations from the Super Falcons bench and sealed a sensational win.
With this hard-fought victory, Nigeria has once again demonstrated why they remain a dominant force in African women’s football. The Super Falcons will now face either Morocco or Ghana in the final, scheduled for Saturday, July 26, 2025.
This triumph is more than just a ticket to the final; it’s a statement. Nigeria’s blend of youth, experience, and resilience continues to shine on the continental stage. For a team that has won the title a record 11 times, another final appearance only reinforces their legacy.
