July 22, (THEWILL) — Michelle Alozie’s injury-time winner sent Nigeria into the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final after a thrilling 2-1 victory over defending champions, South Africa, in Casablanca on Tuesday evening. The substitute’s cross floated deep into the box before goalkeeper Andile Dlamini allowed the ball to slip through her hands and into the net, four minutes into stoppage time.
Rasheedat Ajibade had given Nigeria the lead from the penalty spot in first-half stoppage time, converting after Bambanani Mbane handled inside the area. South Africa responded in the second period through Linda Motlhalo’s penalty, awarded following a VAR review after Osinachi Ohale fouled Hildah Magaia in the box. The goal marked Nigeria’s first concession of the tournament and offered Motlhalo redemption after missing a crucial penalty in the 2018 final shootout against the same opponents.
The match turned dramatic late on when Gabriela Salgado suffered a serious leg injury during a goalmouth scramble, leaving players from both sides visibly distressed. South Africa captain Refiloe Jane remained with her teammate during lengthy treatment before Salgado was stretchered off the pitch. The incident cast a sombre mood over proceedings as both sets of players required consolation from coaching staff.
Nigeria dominated the opening period despite failing to capitalise on several clear chances, including point-blank saves from Dlamini and a goal-line clearance by Tiisetso Makhubela. South Africa grew into the contest after the interval, with Noxolo Cesane and Jermaine Seoposenwe creating opportunities before Alozie’s decisive intervention stunned the defending champions.
The Super Falcons now await the winner of Tuesday’s second semi-final between hosts Morocco and Ghana, which takes place in Rabat. The Super Falcons will aim to claim their 10th WAFCON title and first since 2018, having ended South Africa’s hopes of retaining the trophy they won on home soil two years ago.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
