Super Falcons defender Michelle Alozie has expressed pride and excitement after helping Nigeria edge South Africa 2-1 in a dramatic semi-final to book a place in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The Houston Dash defender, who also works as a cancer researcher, was one of Nigeria’s standout performers and scored the decisive goal in a tense encounter on Tuesday night.
Alozie’s contribution came in the second half, with a well-taken effort that restored Nigeria’s lead after South Africa had drawn level, setting up a final showdown with hosts Morocco.
Speaking after the match, Alozie praised South Africa’s quality and highlighted the Super Falcons’ determination in the face of adversity.
“Yeah, no, South Africa is an amazing team. They’ve always been,” she said.
Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
“I’ve played them three or four times now, and they’re a tough opponent every time. We knew that coming in.”
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Despite conceding their first goal of the tournament, the Super Falcons held their nerve to secure their place in the final, where they’ll chase a record-extending 10th continental crown.
“This was the first game where we had adversity with a goal against us,” Alozie added. “It took everything for our team to regroup. We were just relentless.”
Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
The 28-year-old’s winning strike capped a solid performance, and she is now looking ahead to Sunday’s final against Morocco, who defeated Ghana in a penalty shootout.
“All eyes [are] towards the final, and we’re excited to see who we play next,” she said. “We gave everything in the 90 minutes so we can win the game.”
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The Super Falcons are now just one step away from making history once more and reclaiming the WAFCON title they last won in 2018.
