The stage is officially set for the semifinals of the 2024 WAFCON, showcasing a showdown of African heavyweights. Defending champions South Africa, record-holders Nigeria, rising giants Morocco, and resurgent Ghana will battle for a place in the final of the most prestigious tournament in African women’s football.
This year’s final four closely mirrors that of the 2022 edition, with Morocco, Nigeria, and South Africa all returning to the semifinals. The only change? Ghana replaces Zambia, who finished third in 2022 but exited in the quarterfinals this time around.
NIGERIA VS SOUTH AFRICA:
Nigeria stormed into the semifinals with a commanding 5–0 victory over Zambia, showcasing both attacking depth and defensive solidity. Goals came from five different players, Osinachi Ohale, Esther Okoronkwo, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Oluwatosin Demehin, and Folashade Ijamilusi, as the Super Falcons extended their clean sheet record in the tournament to four. This marks Nigeria’s 13th consecutive WAFCON semifinal appearance, maintaining their perfect record of reaching the last four in every edition since 1998.
Now led by interim head coach Justin Madugu, the nine-time champions have struck a balance between experience and youth. Veterans like Osinachi Ohale continue to anchor the team, while newcomers such as Rinsola Babajide and Esther Okoronkwo have stepped up with impactful performances.
Their opponents, defending champions South Africa, reached the semifinals after a tense 0–0 draw with Senegal that was decided by penalties. Andile Dlamini was the hero, making key saves in the shootout, as Banyana Banyana converted spot kicks through Karabo Dhlamini, Tiisetso Makhubela, Gabriela Salgado, and Bambanani Mbane to win 4–1.
South Africa have now reached the semifinals in nine consecutive WAFCON tournaments, a testament to their consistency. Under Desiree Ellis, the team remains organized and mentally strong, with experienced campaigners like Refiloe Jane, Linda Motlhalo, and Hildah Magaia stepping up in the absence of star Thembi Kgatlana.
This is a rematch of the group-stage clash from the 2022 tournament, where South Africa stunned Nigeria 2–1 and went on to win their first-ever WAFCON title. With both sides now vying for a place in the final, another fierce and high-stakes battle is expected.
MOROCCO VS GHANA:
Host nation Morocco, advanced to the semifinals after a commanding 3–1 victory over Mali in the quarterfinals. Ibtissam Jraidi opened the scoring early and added a second from the penalty spot in the 79th minute. Kenza Chapelle sealed the win with a late goal.
This marks back-to-back semifinal appearances for the Atlas Lionesses, both achieved on home soil. Under Spanish head coach Jorge Vilda, Morocco is building on their breakthrough run from 2022, when they reached the final for the first time in history.
Their opponents, Ghana, are back in the WAFCON semifinals for the first time since 2016. The Black Queens edged Algeria on penalties (4–2) after a tense 0–0 draw over 120 minutes. Goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan was the hero of the shootout, making two crucial saves.
Led by Swedish coach Kim Lars Björkegren, who officially took over the Black Queens in early 2025, Ghana has shown tactical discipline and belief throughout the tournament. Their return to the WAFCON semifinals marks a renewed ambition under fresh leadership.
It’s a contest between a confident host nation and a resurging contender, both with eyes firmly set on continental glory.
As the tournament moves toward its climax, these semifinal fixtures promise thrilling encounters. Whether it is a continuation of dominance by Nigeria and South Africa, or historic breakthroughs for Morocco and Ghana, the competition reflects the rapid growth and increasing competitiveness of women’s football across Africa.
Semifinal Fixtures:
Nigeria vs South Africa
Date: July 22, 2025
Venue: Stade Larbi Zaouli
Time: 5:00 pm
Morocco vs Ghana
Date: July 22, 2025
Venue: Olympic Stadium Rabat
Time: 8:00 pm
Fans across the continent and beyond are eagerly anticipating these high-stakes clashes, with millions set to tune in and support their teams as WAFCON 2024 heads toward an unforgettable finale.
