Michelle Alozie was the hero of the night as Nigeria’s Super Falcons edged out fierce rivals South Africa with a dramatic 2–1 victory, thanks to her thunderous strike in the 94th minute, sending Nigeria into the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
In one of the most intense WAFCON semi-finals in recent memory, the Super Falcons and Banyana Banyana locked horns at the Stade Mohamed V in Casablanca in a match filled with drama, grit, and world-class moments.
Nigeria took an early lead through a well-orchestrated attack, showcasing the attacking prowess of forwards Rasheedat Ajibade, Esther Okoronkwo, and Chinwendu Ihezuo, who had been outstanding throughout the tournament. However, South Africa fought back with a swift equaliser midway through the second half, exploiting a rare lapse in the Nigerian defense.
As the clock ticked down and extra time loomed, both sides ramped up the intensity, each hunting for the winner. But it was Michelle Alozie — the ever-energetic right-back — who provided the decisive moment.
In the 94th minute, with the final seconds of stoppage time slipping away, Alozie charged into the box, latched onto a loose ball, and unleashed a fierce shot that flew past the South African goalkeeper. The goal sparked wild celebrations on the pitch and in the stands, as Nigeria sealed a last-gasp victory in the most dramatic fashion.
Highlights
- Michelle Alozie scores the winning goal in the 94th minute.
- Nigeria defeats South Africa 2–1 to qualify for the WAFCON 2024 final.
- The Super Falcons also secure automatic qualification for the 2025 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The result not only knocks out the reigning champions but also underlines Nigeria’s status as Africa’s dominant force in women’s football, now with a shot at their record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
The final minutes saw tempers flare and injuries mount, with Chinwendu Ihezuo stretchered off and yellow cards flying.
But Nigeria held firm through nine minutes of stoppage time to seal the win and set up a mouthwatering final in Rabat.
The Super Falcons remain unbeaten in the tournament and will head into the final with renewed confidence.
For South Africa, their title defence ends in heartbreak, but they will regroup for the third-place playoff.
Up next, the Super Falcons will face the winner of the Morocco vs Ghana semi-final in the grand finale.
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