The WAFCON 2024 semifinal is set as Nigeria’s Super Falcons prepare for a fierce showdown against South Africa’s Banyana Banyana in what promises to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament.
The two African giants will clash at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, Morocco, on Monday, July 22, with kickoff at 5 PM West Africa Time.
Nigeria, unbeaten and yet to concede a single goal in the competition, are chasing a historic 10th WAFCON title.
On the other side, defending champions South Africa are determined to hold on to their crown despite the absence of star striker Thembi Kgatlana. The stakes are high, and fans across the continent are bracing for a classic.
Nigeria vs South Africa Head to Head
Nigeria and South Africa have faced each other 24 times. The Super Falcons have the upper hand with 15 wins, while South Africa have managed 4 victories, and 5 matches ended in draws.
In WAFCON history, they have met four times in the semifinals:
- 2000 – Nigeria won 3-0
- 2008 – Nigeria won 1-0
- 2012 – South Africa won 1-0
- 2016 – Nigeria won 1-0
In the 2018 WAFCON final, Nigeria defeated South Africa on penalties after a 0-0 draw in regulation time.
Their most recent clash came during the 2024 Olympic qualifiers, where Nigeria defeated South Africa 1-0 in Abuja.
Rasheedat Ajibade scored the lone goal from the penalty spot, ending Nigeria’s six-year winless run against Banyana Banyana.
Nigeria vs South Africa (Betting Tips)
Here are five betting options to consider for this high-stakes encounter:
- Under 2.5 Total Goals
Seven of their last ten meetings have produced fewer than three goals. Expect another tight contest with few scoring chances.
- Both Teams to Score – NO
Nigeria have not conceded a single goal in this tournament. Their defense, led by Nnadozie and Ohale, looks unbreakable.
- Nigeria to Win Either Half
With their clean sheet streak and attacking options like Oshoala and Ajibade, Nigeria may edge one half even if the match stays close.
- Draw at Half Time
These teams usually cancel each other out early. A goalless or low-scoring first half is very likely.
Nigeria vs South Africa Team News
Nigeria’s Super Falcons report no major injuries, with key players like Rasheedat Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala, Chiamaka Nnadozie, and Ashleigh Plumptre available after a 5-0 quarterfinal win over Zambia.
Coach Justin Madugu may stick with the same lineup, featuring Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo up top.
South Africa’s Banyana Banyana, led by coach Desiree Ellis, also have a clean bill of health, with goalkeeper Andile Dlamini and defender Bambanani Mbane in top form post their penalty shootout victory over Senegal.
However, Thembi Kgatlana is absent for personal reasons.
Expected Super Falcons XI (4-2-3-1):
Nnadozie; Alozie, Ohale, Plumptre, Demehin; Ucheibe, Abiodun; Ajibade, Oshoala, Babajide; Ihezuo
Expected South Africa XI (4-2-3-1):
Dlamini; Ramalepe, Mbane, Magama, Makhanya; Jane, Motlhalo; Seoposenwe, Salgado, Magaia; Donnelly
