Michelle Alozie’s stoppage time goal was enough to ensure Nigeria’s Super Falcons advance to the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) following a hard fought 2-1 win against arch-rivals South Africa in a pulsating semi-final on Tuesday evening in Morocco.
It was indeed a “final before the final as the Super Falcons squared upon to the defending champions. Rasheedat Ajibade’s 43rd minute goal from the penalty spot was cancelled out by Linda Motlhalo penalty in the 60th minute.
But just as extra time loomed, Michelle Alozie struck a sensational long-range winner past goalkeeper Andile Dlamini deep into stoppage time to help the Super Falcons avenge their 2022 loss to Banyana Banyana.
Alozie’s stoppage time goal sparked wild celebrations among the Nigerian players and fans inside Stade Larbi Zaouli.
The semi-final victory also cemented Nigeria’s bragging rights over their arch-rivals. In 10 previous Women AFCON matches between both teams, Nigeria have recorded seven wins, while South Africa have managed three.
Still unbeaten in this year’s edition, the Super Falcons will hope their fine form continues when they eventually face either West African rivals Ghana or hosts Morocco (who play in the second semi-final) in the grand finale.
“Count it! see you in the finals,” an excited Alozie posted on X after the semi-final victory.
It is clear that only one team now stands in their path of clinching a record-extending 10th continental title.
