Nigeria’s Super Falcons booked their place in the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Tuesday with a dramatic 2–1 victory over South Africa, sealed by a stoppage-time goal from defender Michelle Alozie.

With the match seemingly heading into extra time, Alozie launched a hopeful long ball into the South African box. It evaded both defenders and the goalkeeper, nestling into the net and stunning Banyana Banyana’s backline.

The goal capped a thrilling end to a tightly contested semi-final that lived up to expectations, as the defending champions faced the nine-time title holders.

Nigeria started brightly, dominating the early exchanges but were denied by a goal-line clearance and several crucial saves from the South African defence.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 44th minute when captain Rasheedat Ajibade calmly converted a penalty after a South African player handled Folashade Ijamilusi’s cross in the box. The Falcons took a 1–0 lead into the break.

South Africa responded strongly in the second half, maintaining pressure on Nigeria’s defence. Their persistence paid off in the 56th minute when they were awarded a penalty after Osinachi Ohale fouled a South African attacker. Linda Motlhalo stepped up and slotted the equaliser.

Both sides made substitutions in search of a winner, but just when the game looked destined for extra time, Nigeria struck again. Alozie capitalised on a well-placed pass from Esther Okoronkwo in the 94th minute to secure a dramatic win.

With this victory, Nigeria remain on course to claim a record-extending 10th WAFCON title. They will face either hosts Morocco or regional rivals Ghana in the final.