Super Falcons Soar to WAFCON Final with Alozie’s Stoppage-Time Stunner

In a thrilling semi-final clash at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, Michelle Alozie etched her name into Nigerian football history with a dramatic 94th-minute winner, securing a 2-1 victory over South Africa’s Banyana Banyana. The Super Falcons’ hard-fought triumph in this pulsating encounter propelled them into their first WAFCON final since 2018, setting the stage for a shot at a record-extending 10th title.

With the match teetering on the brink of extra time, Alozie delivered a moment of magic. Her speculative long cross from the right flank caught South African goalkeeper Andile Dlamini off guard, arcing over her and nestling into the net to spark wild celebrations among the Nigerian contingent. The goal capped a fiercely contested battle, showcasing the Falcons’ resilience and clinical edge.

Nigeria had taken the lead in the 44th minute when Rasheedat Ajibade calmly converted a penalty after a South African defender handled a dangerous cross from Folashade Ijamilusi. However, South Africa responded in the 59th minute, with Linda Motlhalo restoring parity from the penalty spot after Osinachi Ohale’s foul in the box. Despite South Africa holding 55% possession and a 73% pass accuracy compared to Nigeria’s 45% and 66%, the Super Falcons proved more decisive in attack, registering seven shots on target to South Africa’s three.

The match was a tale of near misses and resolute defending. Nigeria threatened early, with Esther Okoronkwo nearly capitalizing on Dlamini’s second-minute fumble, only for the keeper to recover. Okoronkwo came close again in the 15th minute, her effort thwarted by Dlamini’s outstretched legs, while Chiwendu Ihezuo’s follow-up was cleared off the line. South Africa, meanwhile, saw Jermaine Seoposenwe’s 18th-minute strike comfortably saved by Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie. The Banyana Banyana suffered an early setback when defender Tiisetso Makhubela was forced off injured, and their attacking efforts were further blunted when Hildah Magaia fired wide just before halftime.

The second half saw South Africa intensify their pressure, but Nigeria’s defense, marshaled by Ohale, stood tall. A crucial clearance by Ohale in the 72nd minute denied South Africa a potential lead. Tensions flared late when South Africa’s Gabriela Salgado sustained a serious leg injury, requiring her to be stretchered off, a moment that briefly disrupted the game’s rhythm. Yet, it was Nigeria who seized the decisive opportunity, with Alozie’s audacious strike ensuring their passage to the final.

The Super Falcons now await the winner of the Morocco-Ghana semi-final, with the final set for Saturday, July 26, 2025. As they chase a historic 10th WAFCON crown, Nigeria’s blend of defensive solidity, clinical finishing, and moments of individual brilliance makes them formidable contenders. For Alozie and her teammates, the dream of lifting the trophy on Moroccan soil is now just one match away.