Nigeria and South Africa will face off in a blockbuster semi-final at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday, a clash many see as the final before the final.
Kick-off is set for 4 p.m. GMT at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, with anticipation building for what is expected to be one of the most intense fixtures of the tournament.
The Super Falcons have swept through the competition with authority.
Three wins from three in the group stage, all without conceding, were followed by a dominant 5-0 dismantling of Zambia in the quarter-finals.
Coach Randy Waldrum’s side has demonstrated a seamless blend of defensive resilience and attacking fluidity, making them the team to beat.
At the heart of Nigeria’s form is the in-form Esther Okoronkwo, who leads the assist chart with four to her name.
Alongside her, Michelle Alozie and Rasheedat Ajibade provide energy and dynamism, turning defence into attack with pace and precision.
“We know what this match represents and we are ready,” Ajibade declared, underlining Nigeria’s hunger for a tenth continental title. Their last triumph came in 2018, and the squad is determined to reclaim its crown—especially after losing to South Africa in the group stage of the 2022 edition.
South Africa, the reigning champions, enter the semi-final with a contrasting path but no less ambition. A hard-fought 1-1 draw with Tanzania and a tense penalty shootout victory over Senegal have tested Desiree Ellis’s side, but their collective discipline and mental strength remain intact.
Goalkeeper Andile Dlamini was pivotal in their quarter-final win, saving two penalties to secure a 4-1 shootout triumph.
Her leadership at the back mirrors the team’s resolve to defend their title.
“There’s a spark, a collective memory. We know what this match represents,” said Ellis, confident in her side’s unity and resilience.
South Africa’s attacking threats—Jermaine Seoposenwe, Hildah Magaia, and Lebogang Ramalepe—will be key to unsettling Nigeria’s backline.
With speed, intelligence, and clinical finishing, they pose a real threat to a Nigerian defence yet to be breached.
While Nigeria enters as favourites, having scored nine goals without reply, recent history favours South Africa.
The Banyana Banyana triumphed 2-1 in their last competitive meeting, a result that adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already fierce rivalry.
With pride, revenge, and a place in the final at stake, Tuesday’s semi-final promises a gripping contest between two African heavyweights.
