Nigeria’s Super Falcons once again showed why they are Africa’s gold standard in women’s football with a nervy yet thrilling 2-1 win over South Africa’s Banyana Banyana to reach the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
With goals from Rasheedat Ajibade and a freak late strike from Michelle Alozie, the Falcons reminded the continent of their resilience, grit and, when needed, a little bit of fortune.
As the curtain falls on this electric semi-final in Casablanca, here are five key takeaways from Nigeria’s performance as they march towards a record-extending 10th African title.
1. Falcons’ grip on Banyana tightens
This wasn’t just another win, it was a continuation of Nigeria’s upper hand in this storied rivalry.
Out of five WAFCON semifinal meetings between the two powerhouses, Nigeria have now won four. In total, the Falcons have seven victories from 11 WAFCON encounters with South Africa, losing just three. The only draw (2018 final) still ended in Nigerian triumph via penalties.
It speaks volumes about Nigeria’s psychological edge. While South Africa did manage to dethrone them in 2022, the Falcons’ response in 2025 has been authoritative. Africa awaits a new champion.
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2. Ajibade joins the pantheon of Banyana tormentors
Perpetua Nkwocha. Asisat Oshoala. And now, Rasheedat Ajibade.
The 24-year-old continues to make a name for herself when Nigeria face South Africa.
Her coolly-taken penalty in Casablanca was her third goal in high-stakes matches against the Banyana, including the crucial Olympic qualifier in Abuja last year.
Beyond her goal, Ajibade’s leadership in midfield was influential. She dictated tempo, pressed hard, and was a vocal presence. Nigeria needed a moment of composure in the box—and their captain provided it. Big players show up in big games. Ajibade certainly did.
3. A tale of two halves: Fatigue or composure?
The contrast between the first and second halves was stark.
Nigeria were electric in the opening 45: dynamic, direct and dominant. South Africa, on the other hand, were overwhelmed and barely got a sniff. But the momentum flipped after the break.
Oddly, it was Nigeria, not South Africa (who played 120 minutes against Senegal), that looked more fatigued.
The midfield lost its shape, the press dropped, and the defence made errors, none more costly than Ohale’s lapse leading to the equaliser. Whether it was fatigue or just nerves, Nigeria will need to fix this split personality ahead of the final.
4. Missed chances nearly cost Nigeria’s Falcons
Nigeria should have been out of sight by halftime. Echegini, Okoronkwo, and Ihezuo all had gilt-edged chances, but poor finishing and Dlamini’s sharp reflexes kept Banyana Banyana in the game.
In tournaments like WAFCON, wastefulness can be fatal. Against a stronger opponent in the final, the Falcons may not be afforded such generosity.
5. Still too many soft spots for Madugu to patch
Nigeria are in the final, but it wasn’t perfect.
The midfield, after the team conceded the equaliser, looked disjointed. Too many loose passes, too little coordination. Ohale’s error leading to the penalty was uncharacteristic but after that, the game plan went flat.
South Africa found joy on Nigeria’s flanks, especially in the latter stages. For Coach Justin Madugu, these issues will be a concern heading into the final.
Winning ugly has its place, but to lift the trophy, Nigeria must find balance between flair and discipline. The pieces are there; the puzzle just needs finishing touches.