Alozie’s Injury‑Time Strike Sends Super Falcons into WAFCON Final

Michelle Alozie scored deep into stoppage time to give Nigeria a dramatic 2–1 win over holders South Africa in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations semi‑final in Casablanca. The Houston Dash forward dazzled with a long‑range effort in the 94th minute, securing a place in the final and energising the Super Falcons’ “Mission X” for a record‑extending tenth continental crown.

Rasheedat Ajibade had broken the deadlock just before half‑time, calmly converting from the spot after Folashade Ijamilusi was fouled. South Africa’s Linda Motlhalo levelled in the 60th minute via a penalty, but Nigeria remained composed. With both sides locked in a fierce midfield battle, it seemed the match would head into extra time until Alozie’s sensational strike bent beyond the keeper and nestled into the net.

Moments of tension included a worrying injury to South Africa’s Gabriela Salgado in the 84th minute, which paused play and cast a shadow over the contest. However, Nigeria’s resilience prevailed, and their stoppage‑time glory capped off a pulsating encounter.

The Super Falcons remain unbeaten in the tournament and now face host nation Morocco in Saturday’s final in Rabat, ready to fulfil the promise of “Mission X”.

Editorial

We stand proud of this Super Falcons squad, whose determination and composure under pressure have reignited their quest for a tenth WAFCON title. Alozie’s injury‑time heroics reveal not just individual talent, but collective belief—a team conditioned to fight until the final whistle.

We feel this performance demonstrates their evolution: tactical discipline, mental strength, and an ability to seize decisive moments. Nigeria’s response to South Africa’s equaliser illustrated confidence and unity they never wavered.

We believe the coaching staff, led by Justin Madugu, deserve credit for instilling resilience. Tactical adjustments and substitution strategy—introducing players like Deborah Abiodun were spot on, helping maintain defensive structure and fluid attacking transitions.

We assert that the Super Falcons now carry a psychological edge a switch from tournament underdogs to favourites. Yet that shift brings responsibility they must manage nerves, expectations, and pressure in the final against an inspired Moroccan side.

We maintain that this win lays the foundation for a historic conclusion  if Nigeria sustains the grit, cohesion, and belief they showed in Casablanca, they can complete “Mission X” with lasting dignity and pride.

Did You Know?

1. Nigeria’s nine WAFCON titles include an unbroken sequence across the first five editions (1991–1998) only Equatorial Guinea and South Africa have interrupted their dominance.
2. Michelle Alozie’s goal travelled an estimated 35 yards making it one of the longest stoppage‑time winners in tournament semi‑final history.
3. Rasheedat Ajibade is the first Super Falcons captain to convert a semi‑final penalty in back‑to‑back WAFCON tournaments.
4. “Mission X” began after their disappointment in 2022, when Nigeria recorded their lowest-ever finish (fourth) in the competition.
5. Qualification for the WAFCON final ensures direct entry into the 2026 Olympic Games women’s football tournament an additional prize aside from the trophy itself.