ALOZIE’S LATE STRIKE SENDS NIGERIA’S SUPER FALCONS TO WAFCON FINAL

The Super Falcons of Nigeria have booked their place in the final of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) following a hard-fought 2-1 victory over South Africa at the Stade Moulay Hassan in Rabat, Morocco. Defender Michelle Alozie emerged as the unlikely hero, scoring a dramatic 94th-minute winner to send Nigeria into the final.

In what was widely billed as a clash of the titans, the match lived up to expectations, delivering a pulsating contest between the reigning champions, Banyana Banyana, and nine-time winners, the Super Falcons. With the scores tied and extra time looming, Alozie’s speculative long ball into the South African box stunned everyone—including the goalkeeper—nestling into the net and sealing Nigeria’s spot in the final.

Nigeria’s Super Falcons Strike First in Tense Opening Half

The Super Falcons began the match with intensity and purpose, dominating the early stages with slick passing and attacking intent. Nigeria nearly broke the deadlock twice in the opening 20 minutes, only to be denied by a goal-line clearance and a sharp save by South Africa’s goalkeeper, Andile Dlamini.

Nigeria’s pressure eventually paid off in the 44th minute. A cross from Folashade Ijamilusi struck the arm of a South African defender inside the penalty area, prompting the referee to point to the spot. Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade stepped up and calmly dispatched the penalty, giving Nigeria a deserved 1-0 lead heading into the break.

Banyana Banyana Respond Strongly After Halftime

South Africa came out of the dressing room with renewed energy and immediately began pressing for an equaliser. Their efforts were rewarded in the 56th minute when Nigerian defender Osinachi Ohale was adjudged to have fouled a South African attacker in the box. Linda Motlhalo converted the resulting penalty, restoring parity for the Banyana Banyana.

With the game level at 1-1, both sides pushed for a second goal. Substitutions were made on both benches as the coaches sought the right combination to break the deadlock. Nigeria’s defence, marshalled by Oluwatosin Demehin, remained resolute under pressure, while goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie pulled off a series of saves to keep her team in the game.

Alozie’s Moment of Magic Seals the Victory

Just as extra time seemed inevitable, Nigeria found a moment of magic. In the fourth minute of stoppage time, substitute Esther Okoronkwo surged forward on the right flank and delivered a pass to Michelle Alozie. The Houston Dash defender lofted a long-range ball into the South African box which took a wicked bounce, evaded everyone—including the keeper—and nestled into the back of the net.

The goal sparked jubilant scenes on the Nigerian bench and stunned the South Africans, who had fought hard to stay in the game. With little time left, South Africa could not mount another comeback, and the referee’s final whistle confirmed Nigeria’s passage to the final.

Eyes on a Tenth Title as Final Awaits

With the victory, Nigeria remain on course for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title. The Super Falcons will now face either host nation Morocco or regional rivals Ghana in what promises to be another thrilling encounter. Coach Randy Waldrum hailed the team’s resilience and composure under pressure, singling out Alozie for her match-winning contribution.

“This team never gives up,” Waldrum said. “Michelle’s goal was special—not just for its timing, but for the belief it showed. We came here to win, and we’re one game away from making history again.”

As the Super Falcons gear up for the final, Nigerian fans at home and in Morocco will be hoping for another dominant performance to crown what has been an inspiring tournament campaign.