Nigeria edges South Africa to reach 2025 Women’s African Cup of Nations final

Nigeria defeated South Africa

By Emmanuel Akyereko

(Managing Editor)

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have secured their place in the 2025 CAF Women’s African Cup of Nations after defeating defending champions South Africa 2-1 on Tuesday evening in Morocco.

A strike in either halve from Rasheedat Ajibade and Michelle Alozie saw Nigeria avenge their 2022 loss to the Bayana Bayana at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.

The Nigerians are aiming to win their 10th title in the history of the competition.

Atletico Madrid forward Ajibade opened the scoring for Nigeria on the stroke of half-time from the penalty spot after South African defender Bambanani Mbane had deliberately  handled the ball inside the box.

The Bayana Bayana fashioned their response in the second half as they were awarded a penalty in the 60th minute when Hildah Magaia was fouled by Osinachi Ohale.

Linda Motlhalo calmly converted to draw the sides level.

But just as the match appeared headed for extra time, Michelle Alozie produced a stunning 35-yard winner deep into stoppage time, her strike swerving past goalkeeper Andile Dlamini to spark jubilant celebrations at Stade Larbi Zaouli.

Nigeria will now face Morocco in the final after the host country defeated Ghana 4-2 on penalties.