Super Falcons skipper, Rasheedat Ajibade, has shared her thoughts on Nigeria’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over South Africa in the semi-final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The clash between the two fierce rivals lived up to expectations on Tuesday, as the nine-time champions edged past Banyana Banyana to secure a place in the final.
Ajibade gave Nigeria the lead late in the first half, confidently converting from the penalty spot after a sustained spell of pressure.
South Africa drew level around the hour mark when defender Osinachi Ohale brought down Hildah Magaia inside the area, allowing Linda Motlhalo to level from the spot.
But with just minutes remaining, right-back Michelle Alozie restored Nigeria’s lead, firing home a stunning long-range strike to seal the Super Falcons’ passage to the final.
Reflecting on the tense encounter, Ajibade, who was named Woman of the Match for the third time at the tournament, admitted the team had braced for a fierce battle.
“We know it was going to be a difficult game because every game in this tournament has been tough. We know South Africa quite well, they are a very good side,” said Ajibade after the final whistle.
“We have played each other in different competitions, Olympics qualifiers, WAFCON, but we were ready for whatever is going to come our way, physically, and tactically. We were always ready for a game like this.
“When we face challenges, that is when you see the best of Super Falcons. It was difficult, but we managed to get the win.”
The Super Falcons will now take on hosts Morocco in the final at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat on Saturday, aiming for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
