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Rasheedat Ajibade: “It Was Difficult, But We Managed To Beat South Africa”
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Nigeria’s senior women’s national team captain Rasheedat Ajibade has hailed Nigeria’s determination and tactical resilience after the team’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over reigning champions South Africa in the semi-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Ajibade, who calmly converted a penalty in the tense encounter, admitted the match was a significant challenge, crediting South Africa’s Banyana Banyana for their quality and persistence.
“We knew it was going to be a difficult game because every match in this tournament has been tough,” said the forward.
“We know South Africa quite well; they are a very good side.”
“We’ve faced them in Olympic qualifiers, WAFCON — and each time, it’s always intense. But we were prepared for whatever came our way, physically and tactically.”
Ajibade, who has been one of Nigeria’s standout performers throughout the tournament, praised her teammates for rising to the occasion when it mattered most.
“When we face challenges, that’s when you see the best of the Super Falcons,” she added. “It was difficult, but we managed to get the win.”
The win sets up a much-anticipated final showdown between Nigeria and hosts Morocco, a repeat of the dramatic 2022 semi-final that was decided by penalties.
The Super Falcons — nine-time African champions — will now aim to reclaim the continental crown in Saturday’s final and extend their legacy as the most successful women’s football team on the continent.
