Alozie’s Late Strike Against South Africa Sends Super Falcons To WAFCON Final

Nigeria’s Super Falcons edged past South Africa’s Banyana Banyana with a dramatic 2-1 victory on Tuesday to seal a place in the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The semi-final clash saw Nigeria strike first through Rasheedat Ajibade, who calmly converted a penalty to give the Falcons a 1-0 lead at halftime.

South Africa responded early in the second half, with Linda Motlhalo levelling the score from the spot in the 59th minute.

The goal seemed to shift the momentum in favour of the reigning champions as the Super Falcons briefly lost their rhythm, struggling to regain control.

As the game edged towards extra time, Michelle Alozie produced a moment of brilliance deep into stoppage time. Her long-range effort, in the 90+4th minute, caught the South African defence off guard and nestled into the back of the net.

The match was not without concern. Jennifer Echegini and South Africa’s Gabriela Salgado both had to be taken off due to injuries.

Amid a tense second half, Nigeria introduced Christy Ucheibe and Deborah Abiodun in quick succession to add fresh legs and reinforce their midfield, a move that ultimately paid off.

With this win, Nigeria now marches into yet another WAFCON final, and a shot at lifting their 10th continental title. They will face the winner between Morocco and Ghana.