The Super Falcons of Nigeria prevailed over arch rivals South Africa in a feisty semi-final game at WAFCON2024 in a game that had it all and more
Nigeria staked their claim early in the game but could not find the breakthrough courtesy last-ditch defending and amazing goalkeeping from the Banyana Banyana. The pressure eventually told when Ijamulisi’s ball was handled by a South African defender in the box for a penalty to the Super Falcons. Skipper Rasheedat Ajibade stepped up to take a penalty and slotted into the bottom right-hand corner of the post, giving the Super Falcons a 1-0 lead into the break.
South Africa fights back
South Africa will fight back after the break, mounting pressure and finally making it count when Osinachi Ohale committed a foul in the box, gifting South Africa a penalty which was expertly converted for 1-1 by Linda Motlhalo.
The goal gave the Banyana Banyana the momentum, constantly tormenting Michelle Alozie and Osinachi Ohale, with Chiamaka Nnadozie called into action to save a one-on-one before Osinachi completed the clearance.
Climactic drama in stoppage time
Against the run of play, the Super Falcons grabbed a late winner, sending Nigeria to the finals and breaking South African hearts. Michelle Alozie’s cross into the box evaded everybody and found its way into the net for the winning goal, blotting away her sins of abysmal defending over 90 minutes.
After the final whistle
Nigeria will face the winner of the other semi-final game between Morocco and Ghana billed for later today as the Super Falcons are 90 minutes away from achieving #MISSIONX
