Nerves, Noise, and Last-Minute Magic: Semi-Finals Deliver Big

The semi-finals of the tournament delivered high drama, emotion, and elite competition as four of Africa’s top sides clashed for a place in the final.

Nigeria 2-1 South Africa

Nigeria edged out defending champions South Africa in a gripping semi-final encounter. Rasheedat Ajibade opened the scoring for the Super Falcons with a composed penalty in the 45th minute, sending Nigeria into the break with a slender lead.

South Africa responded strongly in the second half and were rewarded with a penalty of their own, which Linda Motlhalo calmly converted in the 60th minute to level the tie.

The match took a tense turn after South African midfielder Gabriela Salgado suffered a serious injury, an incident that left several players visibly shaken. Play eventually resumed, and just when it looked like extra time was inevitable, Nigeria struck. Michelle Alozie scored a dramatic winner in the 94th minute, sealing a 2-1 victory and sending the Super Falcons into the final.

Morocco 1-1 Ghana (Morocco win 4-2 on penalties)

In the other semi-final, hosts Morocco were pushed all the way by a determined Ghana side. The game ended 1-1 after regulation time, with both teams giving everything in a physically and tactically demanding battle. With no goals in extra time, it came down to penalties — and the hosts held their nerve to triumph in the shootout, booking their place in the final to the delight of the home crowd.

As the tournament reaches its climax, all eyes turn to the final fixtures.

Third-Place Match

South Africa vs Ghana

Date: 25th July (Friday)

Time: 8:00pm (WAT)

Venue: Larbi Zaouli Stadium

South Africa will take on Ghana in the third-place playoff. For Banyana Banyana, it’s a chance to finish strong after their title defense was halted by Nigeria. Ghana, meanwhile, will be looking to cap off an impressive campaign with a win and a spot on the podium.

Final

Morocco vs Nigeria

Date: 26th July (Saturday)

Time: 9:00pm (WAT)

Venue: Olympic Stadium, Rabat

Nigeria and Morocco will face off in Saturday’s final — a meeting between two teams who have fought hard to reach this stage. The Super Falcons are chasing another continental title, while Morocco are aiming to make history on home soil. With momentum, confidence, and passionate fan bases behind both teams, it’s a final that promises fireworks.

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