Nigeria’s Super Falcons are through to the final of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a dramatic 2-1 win over reigning champions South Africa in a gripping semi-final encounter on Tuesday.
The match, held at the Stade Olympique in Abidjan, lived up to its billing with end-to-end action, fierce tackles, and high emotions as two of the continent’s biggest rivals battled for a place in the final.
Nigeria took the lead on the stroke of halftime when Rasheedat Ajibade calmly converted a penalty in the 45th minute after a South African defender was judged to have handled the ball in the box.
South Africa came out stronger in the second half, and their pressure paid off in the 60th minute as Lebogang Ramalepe’s pinpoint cross found Hilda Magaia, who set up Kholosa Biyana for a quick one-two before Refilwe Matlou slotted home the equalizer to make it 1-1.
With the game seemingly headed for extra time, the Super Falcons found a dramatic winner deep into stoppage time.
In the 90+5th minute, a dangerous cross from Michelle Alozie caused chaos in the South African box.
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The ball ricocheted off goalkeeper Dlamini and Nigerian midfielder Halimatu Ayinde before nestling into the net, sending the Nigerian bench and fans into wild celebrations.
The match was filled with intensity and pressure, with both sides showing their class.
However, Nigeria edged the contest and ended the title defense of South Africa, booking a spot in the final as they continue their mission to reclaim continental glory.
The Super Falcons now await the winner of the other semi-final clash between Morocco and Ghana.