Nigeria's Super Falcons landed the decisive blow against South Africa in added time to go through to the final of the 2025 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The nine-time African queens, who came in as sight favourites against the reigning champions, were breached for the first time in the competition, but shook off the disappointment to win 2-1 and book a place in the tournament showpiece in Rabat.
Nigeria, who were unchanged from the quarter-final, started the match on top, and came close to opening the scoring on a number of occasions, most notably through Esther Okoronkwo, whose effort was saved by Andile Dlamini.
Super Falcons strike, but Banyana fight back
The opener, when it did come, arrived on the stroke of half time, as Banyana were beginning to find their feet, as a handball infraction led to the award of a penalty. Super Falcons' captain Rasheedat Ajibade duly dispatched from the spot.
The second half continued in the same vein, but as South Africa found a foothold in the game, they were awarded a penalty of their own. Defender Osinachi Ohale hauled down winger Hilda Magaia inside the box, leaving Linda Motlhalo with the simple task of leveling from the spot.
The tide clearly turned after that, with South Africa growing in confidence as Nigeria flagged. However, with extra time looming, right-back Michelle Alozie‘s lighted delivery into the box evaded everyone and trickled over the line to send the Super Falcons into raptures.
