On Tuesday, Nigeria’s Super Falcons clinched a place in the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations following a hard-fought 2-1 win against South Africa’s Banyana Banyana in a nail-biting semi-final match. The high-intensity game saw the Super Falcons take an early lead when Rasheedat Ajibade converted a penalty in the 45th minute, putting Nigeria ahead 1-0 as they headed into halftime. In the first half, South Africa had to make a substitution in the 26th minute when striker Hildah Magaia was injured, resulting in Thubelihle Makhubela replacing her. The South African side came back strong in the second half, equalizing the score in the 60th minute when Linda Motlhalo successfully converted a penalty to make it 1-1. Just when it seemed the game might go to extra time, Nigeria secured a late victory during stoppage time. Michelle Alozie netted the winning goal in the 90+4th minute after being set up by Esther Okoronkwo, ensuring a thrilling triumph for the Falcons. The substitutions made by both teams contributed to the match’s pace and intensity, with the Super Falcons demonstrating greater composure in the final moments. This win allows Nigeria to progress to the WAFCON final, maintaining their stronghold on the continental stage and bringing them closer to winning another title.
