WAFCON 2024: Super Falcons Stun Banyana Banyana in Dying Seconds to Book Final Spot

In a breathtaking semifinal that lived up to its billing, Nigeria’s Super Falcons edged out defending champions South Africa 2–1 in Casablanca to reach the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final for the 14th time. It was a dramatic night, full of tension, injuries, and last-gasp heroics and it ended with heartbreak for Banyana Banyana and wild celebration for the record nine-time African champions.

The game, played at Stade El Arbi Zaouli, had everything: VAR drama, a flurry of substitutions, heroic interventions, and a gut-wrenching own goal that settled it in stoppage time.

Nigeria struck first in the 45th minute after relentless pressure. It was Rasheedat Ajibade who converted from the spot, slotting home with composure after Mbane handled the ball inside the box. The penalty came after persistent probing down the flanks, with Ijamilusi’s drive into the area drawing the decisive error.

South Africa responded after the break. In the 56th minute, veteran defender Osinachi Ohale clumsily dragged Hildah Magaia down inside the penalty area. After a lengthy VAR review, the referee pointed to the spot, and Linda Motlhalo stepped up to calmly send Nnadozie the wrong way, levelling the score at 1–1 in the 60th minute.

The remainder of the match was an arm-wrestle. Both sides created openings — Jermaine Seoposenwe blasted over the bar, while Nigeria’s Ohane made a crucial block to deny a Motlhalo shot on the line. Injuries added to the chaos, with South Africa’s Gabriela Salgado stretchered off late in the second half after a bicycle-kick attempt went awry, disrupting the rhythm of play as both teams braced for extra time.

But there would be no need.

In the 94th minute, Michelle Alozie launched a long ball into the South African box & chaos erupted. A scramble ensued involving the goalkeeper and defenders, culminating in the ball finding the back of the net. It was a cruel, gut-wrenching blow for South Africa, and pure ecstasy for Nigeria.

That own goal would prove decisive. The final whistle blew moments later, confirming Nigeria’s place in yet another WAFCON final. The Super Falcons, who were knocked out by South Africa in the semifinals of the last edition, finally exacted revenge in the most dramatic fashion possible.

Nigeria will now await the winner of the second semifinal between Morocco and Ghana ,two sides dreaming of breaking the West African stranglehold on the competition. But with one eye already on a historic 10th continental title, Nigeria march on ; seasoned, ruthless, and alive to the very last minute.