Super Falcons Beat South Africa to Reach WAFCON Final
A stoppage-time goal from Michelle Alozie fired Nigeria’s Super Falcons into the final of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a 2-1 victory over South Africa.
The semi-final clash was tense from start to finish. South Africa’s goalkeeper Andile Dlamini made key early saves to deny Rasheedat Ajibade, Chinwendu Ihezuo, and Esther Okworonkwo as Nigeria dominated the opening 15 minutes.
Nigeria eventually took the lead just before half-time. Ajibade converted from the penalty spot after a handball in the area. Dlamini guessed correctly and got a hand on the ball, but the shot was too powerful to keep out.
South Africa fought back early in the second half. Veteran Nigerian defender Osinachi Ohale was penalised for pulling down Dlamini in the box, and Linda Motlhalo coolly slotted home the penalty — the first goal Nigeria conceded in the tournament.
With the game heading for extra time, Alozie produced a moment of magic deep into stoppage time. Her long cross from the right deceived everyone in the box and bounced straight into the net. Substitute Deborah Abiodun attempted to claim a touch, but replays confirmed Alozie as the scorer.
South Africa pushed hard in the dying moments, but the Super Falcons held on to secure a place in the final, where they will be chasing a record 10th WAFCON title.
