By Mercy Gadia Adi
The Super Falcons of Nigeria have booked their place in the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a thrilling 2-1 win over arch-rivals South Africa in the semi-finals.
Rasheedat Ajibade and Michelle Alozie scored the decisive goals, with Ajibade opening the scoring just before halftime and Alozie netting a sensational long-range winner in stoppage time.
Nigeria dominated the first half, dictating the tempo with a disciplined defense and sharp transitions.
Ajibade broke the deadlock with a composed finish from close range, before Linda Motlhalo equalized for South Africa from the penalty spot after a handball by Bambanani Mbane in the South African box was corrected to Osinachi Ohale in the Nigerian box. However, the hosts regained the lead just before halftime when Ajibade scored from close range.
South Africa came out fighting in the second half and were rewarded with a penalty in the 60th minute after Hildah Magaia was fouled by Osinachi Ohale.
Motlhalo made no mistake from the spot, leveling the scores and swinging the momentum temporarily in favor of the defending champions.
But just as extra time loomed, Michelle Alozie struck a sensational long-range winner deep into stoppage time. Her 35-yard effort swerved past goalkeeper Andile Dlamini and sparked wild celebrations among the Nigerian players and fans.
The Super Falcons remain unbeaten in the tournament and will head into the final with renewed confidence. For South Africa, their title defense ends in heartbreak, but they will regroup for the third-place playoff.