The 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semifinal serves up a familiar rivalry as Super Falcons of Nigeria lock horns with Banyana Banyana of South Africa on Tuesday, July 22, in Casablanca.
With nine WAFCON titles, Super Falcons remain the continent’s most decorated side, while defending champions South Africa are eyeing back-to-back trophies after claiming their first crown in 2022.
This semifinal clash is expected to be one of the tournament’s defining moments.
Team News
Nigeria:
Head coach Justin Madugu has a fully fit squad to choose from. Ashleigh Plumptre, who picked up a knock in the quarterfinals, has returned to training, while Chioma Okafor is available after recovering from a hand strain.
Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
The Super Falcons are expected to maintain their 4-3-3 setup, with Ajibade, Echegini, and Ayinde forming a dynamic midfield trio behind a fluid forward line led by Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo.
South Africa:
Desiree Ellis is likely to retain the team that battle it through against Senegal Mbane, Maigama, Dhlamini will continue at the back while Hildah Magaia may retain her central striking role unless side Jermaine Seponsewene.
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The team could shift from a 4-2-3-1 to a 4-3-3 to better control the midfield, with creative hub Linda Motlhalo and Rifleo Jane at the heart of their build-up.
Head-to-Head: Nigeria vs South Africa
This will be the 11th WAFCON meeting between the two nations, and history favours Nigeria:
Total WAFCON meetings: 10
Nigeria wins: 8
South Africa wins: 2
Goals scored: Nigeria – 16 | South Africa – 5
However, recent history is less kind to the Super Falcons. South Africa defeated Nigeria 2-1 in the group stage of the 2022 edition a symbolic result that sparked their run to a first-ever title.
WAFCON Semifinal Head-to-Head
This semifinal will also mark the fifth time these heavyweights have met at this exact stage of the tournament.
Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
Nigeria have the edge, but South Africa have proven they can disrupt expectations:
2002: Nigeria 5–0 South Africa
2012: South Africa 1–0 Nigeria
2014: Nigeria 2–1 South Africa (Asisat Oshoala brace)
2016: Nigeria 1–0 South Africa (Desire Oparanozie winner)
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South Africa will be seeking to level the semifinal series and avenge past heartbreaks in what promises to be another chapter in this storied rivalry.
Key Battles to Watch
Ajibade vs Motlhalo: Nigeria’s midfield engine meets South Africa’s creative orchestrator in a duel that could shape the tempo of the game.
Nnadozie vs Magaia: Nigeria’s unbeaten keeper will be tested by South Africa’s attack, especially if Magaia finds her finishing touch.
Okoronkwo vs Maigama: The pace and trickery of Nigeria’s winger will go head-to-head with South Africa’s experienced right-back.
