A dramatic late strike by Michelle Alozie sealed a hard-fought 2-1 victory for Nigeria’s Super Falcons over reigning champions South Africa’s Banyana Banyana, propelling the Nigerian side into the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Casablanca, Morocco.
The win keeps alive Nigeria’s ambitious quest dubbed “Mission X” to claim an unprecedented 10th WAFCON title, reinforcing their dominance in African women’s football.
Nail-Biting Semi-Final Thriller
The Super Falcons took the lead in first-half stoppage time after a South African defender handled the ball inside the penalty area. Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade stepped up confidently to convert the spot kick, sending Nigeria into the break with a 1-0 advantage.
However, South Africa found a way back into the game in the 59th minute. A penalty was awarded following a foul by Osinachi Ohale, and the Banyana Banyana made no mistake from the spot to draw level at 1-1.
Redemption came swiftly for Ohale in the 73rd minute. After goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie was rounded, Ohale made a heroic goal-line clearance to keep Nigeria’s hopes alive.
Alozie Delivers the Knockout Punch
Just when it appeared the clash was headed into extra time, Michelle Alozie produced a moment of magic. In the dying minutes of regulation time, the American-born defender unleashed a long-range effort that soared past Andile Dlamini, widely regarded as the tournament’s top goalkeeper.
Alozie’s last-gasp winner not only ended South Africa’s title defence but also booked Nigeria a place in the final, where they will meet either host nation Morocco or Ghana’s Black Queens, who face off in the second semifinal.
Road to Glory Continues
With one game left between the Super Falcons and continental glory, Nigerian fans will be hoping their team can maintain momentum and secure a historic 10th WAFCON crown, further cementing their legacy as Africa’s most successful women’s football team.
