A dramatic stoppage-time goal from Michelle Alozie sent Nigeria into the final of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations(WAFCON), as the Super Falcons edged South Africa 2-1 in a tense semi-final clash.
Andile Dhlamini’s early saves kept South Africa in the game during a ferocious Nigerian start, with Rasheedat Ajibade, Chinwendu Ihezuo, and Esther Okworonkwo all threatening inside the opening 15 minutes.
Nigeria eventually broke the deadlock just before half-time when Ajibade converted from the spot after a handball inside the box.
Dlamini guessed correctly and got a hand to it, but the strike was too powerful.
Photo Credit: X
South Africa responded early in the second half, as veteran defender Osinachi Ohale conceded a penalty for pulling back Dhlamini in the area.
Linda Motlhalo calmly dispatched the spot-kick to level the score at 1-1 – the first goal Nigeria conceded in the tournament.
The game looked set for extra time until a moment of brilliance deep into added time.
READ MORE:daniel-igali-construction-booms-at-bayelsa-state-%e2%82%a695bn-stadium-site-in-igbogene
Michelle Alozie launched a hopeful long ball into the area from wide on the right, and with confusion in the box, the ball evaded everyone and bounced into the net.
Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
Substitute Deborah Abiodun tried to claim a touch, but replays showed it was Alozie’s goal.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL
South Africa had one final push, but the Super Falcons held on to seal a place in the final, where they will now chase a record-extending 10th continental title.
