Banyana’s journey in WAFCON ended by Nigeria

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Deborah Ajibola Abiodun of Nigeria celebrates goal during the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations Semi Final match between Nigeria and South Africa at Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco on 22 July 2025 ©Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix

Banyana Banyana missed the chance to book their place in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final after falling to a 2-1 defeat to Nigeria in the semi-finals on Tuesday evening.

The Nigerians opened the scoring in the 44th minute following an adjudged handball inside the box.

Rasheedat Ajibade stepped up and slotted the ball into the back of the net, despite Andile Dlamini guessing the correct way.

South Africa were awarded a penalty of their own in the 56th minute when Hildah Magaia was brought down inside the box.

Linda Motlhalo stepped up and converted from the penalty spot with a powerful strike to send the keeper the wrong way and level the scoreline.

Banyana had a chance to take the lead in the 73rd minute, but Noxolo Cesane saw her effort saved off the line after she beat Nigerian keeper Chiamaka Nnadozie to the ball.

It was Nigeria who eventually took the lead in stoppage-time when Michelle Alozie played a long ball into the box, which evaded Dlamini before sailing into the back of the net.

South Africa were unable to find an equalising goal as Nigeria held on for a 2-1 win and booked their place in the final.