After a stunning 2-1 victory over South Africa, the Super Falcons of Nigeria on Tuesday secured their place in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final in Morocco thanks to defender Michelle Alozie’s late goal.
Alozie launched a long ball into the South African penalty area, which evaded everyone but the goalkeeper, and nestled into the net to slay the Banyana Banyana defense as it appeared to be in extra time.
The winner put Nigeria in the lead in the final and put a passionate end to a fiercely fought semifinal contest.
The billed match was billed as a “clash of the titans” between the nine-time champions and the defending champions, which was almost called extra time.
Read more about Madugu’s Super Falcons over Zambia victory in “Good Performance.”
The South African defense made a number of crucial saves and a goal-line clearance to keep the scores level, but the Nigerian ladies did not start well, dominating the early proceedings.
When a South African defender was sent off for handling Folashade Ijamilusi’s cross in the box in the 44th minute, Rasheedat Ajibade, the country’s captain, calmly converted from the penalty spot.
As both teams entered the halftime break, Ajibade’s penalty remained decisive.
After the break, South Africa stepped up and dominated the opening exchanges, putting sustained pressure on the Falcons’ defense. Following a foul committed by Osinachi Ohale, who was penalized for pulling down a South African attacker in the box, they earned a penalty in the 56th minute.
Banyana Banyana level was dragged in by Linda Motlhalo when she stepped up and quietly slotted home the penalty.
Both coaches responded by bringing forth new legs in an effort to find the winning goal. Nigeria clinched a dramatic victory just as extra time appeared to be upon us.
After Esther Okoronkwo’s well-timed setup, Michelle Alozie fired home in the 94th minute, sealing a dramatic victory for the Super Falcons.
Source: Channels TV
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