As the sun sets over Rabat, all eyes will turn to one of African women’s football’s most iconic rivalries: Nigeria versus South Africa. This evening’s semi-final clash at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) promises fireworks, history, and no shortage of emotion.
Dubbed “a clash of titans” by former Super Falcons striker Desire Oparanozie, the match pits the continent’s most successful team against the current title holders. Nigeria, nine-time champions, have only failed to lift the trophy three times since the tournament’s inception. South Africa, on the other hand, are a team on the rise, looking to assert their dominance after clinching their first title in 2022.
In an interview with CAFOnline.com, Oparanozie summed up the intensity of the encounter. “It means everything. It’s an all-to-play-for encounter; it’s more than just a game. A clash of titans with national pride on the line. A rekindled rivalry.”
Indeed, the rivalry is storied and fierce. Nigeria and South Africa have met ten times in WAFCON history. The Super Falcons hold a dominant record with eight wins, but recent encounters tell a different story. The Banyana Banyana have grown in confidence and tactical maturity under coach Desiree Ellis, culminating in their landmark victory over Nigeria in the group stage of the 2022 tournament and eventually winning the trophy.
South Africa are aiming for a third consecutive final appearance, a feat that would mark a golden era for their women’s football program. With a core group of experienced players like Thembi Kgatlana, Linda Motlhalo, and Jermaine Seoposenwe, they enter the match not only as reigning champions but as genuine contenders to repeat their 2022 success.
Nigeria, however, are hungry to reclaim their crown. Led by American-based coach Randy Waldrum, the Super Falcons have been gradually finding their rhythm in Morocco. Asisat Oshoala, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Christy Ucheibe have been standout performers, combining attacking flair with steely determination.
The stakes could not be higher. A place in the final, national pride, and possibly a ticket to the 2025 Women’s World Cup qualification rounds hang in the balance. This semi-final also offers a broader narrative: the changing power dynamics in African women’s football. Nigeria’s historical dominance is being increasingly challenged by South Africa’s resurgence and Morocco’s recent rise.
But for the players, it’s not just about history or records — it’s about legacy.
“You feel the weight of the jersey,” Oparanozie added. “When you step on the pitch against South Africa, you’re not just playing for today; you’re playing for every girl who ever dreamt of becoming a Falcon, and every Nigerian who believes in the team.”
The match will be watched closely by scouts, fans, and federations across the continent. For many, it symbolizes the pinnacle of the women’s game in Africa — fast, passionate, technically sound, and fiercely competitive.
Kick-off is scheduled for 7 PM local time. Whether it’s the experience and history of the Super Falcons or the hunger and momentum of Banyana Banyana that prevails, one thing is certain: Africa is set for a footballing spectacle.
