|
Listen to article
|
The Super Falcons of Nigeria booked a spot in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after a hard-fought 2–1 win over holders South Africa.
Nigeria came close to scoring in the opening 12 minutes through Chiwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo. Ihezuo was set up by a superb pass from Ashleigh Plumptre in the 11th minute, but South Africa goalkeeper Andile Dlamini produced a superb save to deny the striker. Dlamini also stopped Okoronkwo’s goal-bound effort one minute later.
South Africa barely tested Chiamaka Nnadozie despite their smooth play in midfield.
The Super Falcons were awarded a penalty one minute before the break after Bomgeka Gamede handled the ball inside the box. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade calmly slotted the ball into the net, with Dlamini getting a hand on it.
Linda Motlhalo equalised for South Africa from another penalty on the hour mark.
The right-back won the game for the Super Falcons with a long-range effort in stoppage time.
After sustained pressure, Nigeria took the lead just before halftime when Bambanani Mbane was penalized for a handball while stopping Folashade Ijamilusi in the box.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade calmly converted the resulting penalty, giving the Falcons a 1-0 advantage at the break.
South Africa hit back in the 60th minute. Linda Motlhalo equalized from the spot after Osinachi Ohale clumsily fouled Hildah Magaia inside the box.
The goal was the first Nigeria had conceded in the tournament and shifted momentum briefly in Banyana Banyana’s favour.
Both teams pushed for a winner in a tense and physical encounter, with chances falling to Jennifer Echegini, Esther Okoronkwo, and Chinwendu Ihezuo for Nigeria, while Jermaine Seoposenwe and substitute Noxolo Cesane posed threats for South Africa.
Nigeria goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie had to stay alert, while defenders Ohale and Ashleigh Plumptre made crucial interventions.
Tragedy struck in the 84th minute when South Africa’s Gabriela Salgado suffered a serious leg injury while contesting a set piece, leading to emotional scenes as teammates broke down in tears and even Nigerian fans joined in chanting her name in solidarity.
With extra time looming and South Africa shaken, Nigeria pressed on. A cross from Alozie, sent in from deep, created chaos in the Banyana box.
