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WAFCON 2024: South Africa vs Nigeria Preview
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
This isn’t just a semifinal—it’s a clash of giants. South Africa and Nigeria’s rivalry in the CAF TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) is storied, tense, and always compelling.
Now, with a place in the 2024 final at stake, they meet again in what many see as the tournament’s true decider.
Nigeria: Relentless, Ruthless, and Unyielding
The Super Falcons have looked imperious. Three group-stage wins, nine goals scored, zero conceded—culminating in a 5-0 quarterfinal thrashing of Zambia.
Justine Madugu’s side has been both fluid and disciplined, with a well-drilled backline and lightning transitions.
Michelle Alozie’s overlapping runs have been instrumental, while Rasheedat Ajibade commands the midfield with her drive and creativity.
Esther Okoronkwo, the tournament’s assist queen with three to her name, is increasingly becoming the engine behind Nigeria’s attack.
Their numbers speak volumes: best offense, best defense, and arguably the most in-form squad left standing.
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South Africa: Grit, Growth, and a Champion’s Mentality
While South Africa’s path has been bumpier, it’s been no less impressive. After a sluggish group stage—highlighted by a 1-1 draw with Tanzania—they scraped past Senegal on penalties (0-0, 4-1), thanks to goalkeeper Andile Dlamini’s nerves of steel.
But this is a side that knows how to rise. Jermaine Seoposenwe’s guile, Hildah Magaia’s clinical finishing, and the ever-composed Lebogang Ramalepe give them teeth in attack.
Under coach Desiree Ellis, their patient, possession-based play is finally clicking into a more incisive rhythm—recalling the form that won them the title in 2022.
“There’s a fire, a collective memory. We know what this match means,” Ellis said. Her words carry the weight of experience and a burning desire to prove that 2022 was no fluke.
History and Revenge in the Air
Despite Nigeria’s dominance in the stat sheet, South Africa has recent bragging rights: they won their last WAFCON meeting 2-1. That result still lingers. For Nigeria, it’s unfinished business. For South Africa, it’s proof that giants can be slain.
The Bigger Picture: A Glorious Final Four
Beyond this rivalry, the tournament’s semifinal lineup is a glowing endorsement of African women’s football.
Morocco is chasing a historic first title on home soil. Ghana seeks to reclaim its place at the top. But for now, all eyes are on this heavyweight bout.
South Africa vs Nigeria. It’s not the final—but it feels like one.
