Casablanca, Morocco – In a highly anticipated semi-final clash at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024, the Super Falcons of Nigeria triumphed over defending champions Banyana Banyana of South Africa with a hard-fought 2-1 victory. The intense encounter, widely billed as a "final before the final," saw Nigeria secure their spot in the championship match and keep alive their hopes of a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.

The match at the Prince Larbi – Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca lived up to its billing as a heavyweight showdown between two of African women's football's most dominant forces. The rivalry between Nigeria and South Africa has a rich history, with the Super Falcons traditionally holding the upper hand, but Banyana Banyana having closed the gap significantly in recent years, including a notable 2-1 group stage win over Nigeria in the 2022 WAFCON, which they ultimately went on to win.

Nigeria broke the deadlock just before halftime when Rasheedat Ajibade calmly converted a penalty after a handball in the South African box. This goal capped off a first half where Nigeria showcased their disciplined defense and sharp transitions, constantly probing the Banyana Banyana backline.

However, the defending champions, South Africa, came out with renewed vigor in the second half. Their persistence paid off in the 60th minute when Hildah Magaia was fouled in the box, leading to a penalty. Linda Motlhalo stepped up and expertly dispatched the spot-kick, leveling the scores and temporarily shifting the momentum in favor of Banyana.

As the match seemed destined for extra time, Michelle Alozie produced a moment of magic deep into stoppage time. Her sensational long-range effort from approximately 35 yards swerved past South African goalkeeper Andile Dlamini, sending the Nigerian bench and fans into rapturous celebration.

The final minutes of the game were tense, with tempers flaring and players picking up injuries, but Nigeria held firm through nine minutes of added time to seal their victory.

For the Super Falcons, this win is not just about reaching the final; it's also a sweet revenge for their 2022 group stage loss to South Africa and a strong statement of their intent to reclaim continental supremacy. The team has been in commanding form throughout the tournament, reaching the semi-final without conceding a single goal prior to this match, including a dominant 5-0 thrashing of Zambia in the quarter-finals.

South Africa, despite a gritty journey to the semi-finals that included a penalty shootout win over Senegal, sees their title defense come to a heartbreaking end. However, Banyana Banyana have proven their mettle as a formidable force in African football and will now regroup for the third-place playoff.

Nigeria will now face the winner of the second semi-final between hosts Morocco and Ghana in the WAFCON 2024 final in Rabat, aiming to lift the coveted trophy once more. This latest chapter in the Nigeria vs. South Africa rivalry has delivered another classic, reminding fans why this remains one of the most compelling matchups in African football.