Nigeria vs South Africa – WAFCON Semifinal Showdown Set
Byline: IDNN Women’s Football Desk
The highly anticipated WAFCON 2024 semifinal between Nigeria’s Super Falcons and South Africa’s Banyana Banyana is officially set, following dramatic wins by both nations in the quarterfinals over the weekend.
Defending champions South Africa advanced after edging Senegal 4-1 on penalties in Oujda on Saturday night, while Nigeria had dismantled Zambia 5-0 a day earlier in Casablanca. The result sets up an epic continental rematch between Africa’s two most dominant women’s football teams.
This Tuesday’s clash at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca is being billed as a de facto final, with Nigeria chasing a record-extending 10th WAFCON title, and South Africa out to prove that their 2022 championship run was no fluke.
2022 Rematch With Everything on the Line
This will be the first WAFCON meeting between the two sides since their iconic group-stage clash in 2022, when South Africa stunned Nigeria 2-1 — handing the Falcons their first group-stage loss in 20 years. The Banyana Banyana went on to lift the title that year.
But this time, Nigeria returns with fire.
Under Justine Madugu, the Super Falcons have won all four matches at the tournament without conceding a single goal. Their 5-0 rout of Zambia saw goals from Ohale, Okoronkwo, Ihezuo, Demehin, and rising star Ijamilusi.
South Africa, on the other hand, showed nerves of steel against Senegal. After a tense goalless 120 minutes, goalkeeper Andile Dlamini emerged as the heroine with two critical saves in the shootout.
Battle of Legacy vs Supremacy
For Nigeria, this is about restoring their reign as Africa’s queens. For South Africa, it’s about retention and validation.
The stakes are sky-high. A place in the final awaits, and so does the right to dominate the women’s game on the continent.
“Mission X is alive,” declared a statement from the Nigeria camp, referencing their drive for a 10th title.
🗓️ SEMIFINAL FIXTURE
📍 Venue: Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca
📆 Date: Tuesday, July 23, 2025
⏰ Kickoff: 8:00 PM (WAT)
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