Nigeria edged arch-rivals South Africa 2-1 in a pulsating Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semi-final on Tuesday evening, booking their place in the final and keeping alive hopes of a record-extending 10th continental title.

In a match billed as a “final before the final,” Rasheedat Ajibade and Michelle Alozie rose to the occasion, scoring on either side of a Linda Motlhalo penalty to help the Super Falcons avenge their 2022 defeat to Banyana Banyana and reaffirm their dominance in African women’s football.

Ajibade opened the scoring just before halftime with a composed penalty after Bambanani Mbane was penalised for a handball in the South African box. The goal capped off a dominant first-half display from Nigeria, who controlled the tempo with disciplined defending and incisive attacking play, led by Alozie and Chinwendu Ihezuo.

South Africa, the defending champions, came out with renewed urgency in the second half and were rewarded in the 60th minute when Hildah Magaia was brought down by Osinachi Ohale, resulting in a penalty. Motlhalo converted coolly to level the score and shift the momentum in Banyana’s favour.

But just as the match seemed destined for extra time, Alozie delivered a moment of magic. Deep into stoppage time, she unleashed a stunning 35-yard strike that swerved past goalkeeper Andile Dlamini, sending Nigerian players and fans into raptures at Stade Larbi Zaouli.

The closing minutes were tense and chaotic, with tempers flaring, injuries mounting, and multiple yellow cards shown. Ihezuo had to be stretchered off, adding to the drama.

Despite the pressure, Nigeria held firm through nine minutes of added time to seal a memorable win and set up a mouthwatering final in Rabat.

The Super Falcons remain unbeaten in the tournament and will head into the final brimming with confidence.

For South Africa, the dream of back-to-back titles ends in heartbreak, but they will regroup to contest the third-place playoff.