The stage is set for a thrilling semi-final match at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) as Nigeria’s Super Falcons take on arch-rivals South Africa’s Banyana Banyana.
The highly anticipated encounter will take place at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, Morocco, on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at 5:00 pm Nigeria time (WAT).
South Africa secured their spot in the semi-finals after a tense battle against Senegal, which ended goalless after both regular and extra time.
The defending champions won the penalty shootout 4-1, with goalkeeper Andile Dlamini making crucial saves to seal their victory.
Nigeria, on the other hand, booked their spot in the last four with a commanding 5-0 demolition of Zambia’s Copper Queens, extending their unbeaten record in the tournament
The matchup promises to be an intense rivalry, given the history between the two teams.
In the 2022 edition of WAFCON, also held in Morocco, South Africa emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Nigeria.
That victory came three years after the Banyana Banyana’s heartbreaking loss to Nigeria in the WAFCON final.
The two teams have met 24 times, with Nigeria leading with 15 wins, 5 draws, and 4 losses.
The Super Falcons are riding high on confidence, having scored eight goals without conceding in four matches so far in the tournament.
Their impressive defensive work has been a testament to their strength.
Coach Justine Madugu has emphasised psychological and tactical readiness, aiming to improve goal conversion while maintaining their clean-sheet streak.
Nigeria is likely to deploy a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation, emphasising defensive solidity and quick transitions.
Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie will anchor a backline led by Osinachi Ohale and Ashleigh Plumptre.
South Africa, on the other hand, may favour a 4-2-3-1 formation, balancing possession with rapid counterattacks.
Lebohang Ramalepe and Bambanani Mbane will be crucial in defense, while Linda Motlhalo and Refiloe Jane control midfield ¹.
The other semi-final match will feature Ghana’s Black Queens against hosts Morocco on the same day as Nigeria’s match against South Africa.
The winner of each semi-final will face off in the final, while the losers will battle for third place.
