WAFCON
Nigeria vs South Africa: Legends Oparanozie, Dlamini Stoke Flames ahead of Titans’ Semifinal Showdown
As two of Africa’s fiercest rivals prepare to square off in a high-stakes Women’s Africa Cup of Nations semifinal, former Nigeria and South Africa captains Desire Oparanozie and Amanda Dlamini, both now CAF co-commentators, have delivered a stirring buildup.
With Nigeria chasing a historic 10th title and South Africa aiming to defend their crown, Tuesday’s encounter is shaping up as more than just a semifinal. It is a clash of legacies, belief, and tactical mastery.
“It’s more than just a game” – A Rivalry of Pride and Legacy
For Oparanozie, who once led the Super Falcons in this same heated fixture, this isn’t just another WAFCON match.
“It means everything. It’s an all to play for encounter, it’s more than just a game. A clash of titans with national pride on the line. A rekindled rivalry,” Oparanozie told CAFOnline.com.
Dlamini echoed similar sentiments, drawing on the mental intensity the fixture demands and the weight of legacy each side carries.
“It’s going to be a mind game. Both teams need to give it a go because they are equally incredible. Any team that wants to go pound for pound with the Nigerian team have to have that endurance and ability to go all the way and dig deep for 90 minutes,” Dlamini told CAFOnline.com.
“South Africa obviously know what to expect in terms of physicality. They are an imposing team in terms of composure. It takes a lot mentally.
“For South Africa, they have to believe. Coming into this competition, they have to remind themselves that they are defending champions and carry that kind of attitude. In as much as they have that attitude, they have to know that Nigeria have the same mentality of not going another year without the WAFCON title.”
The Tactical Blueprint: Compact Defence vs Midfield Magic
Nigeria’s strength has been rooted in its defensive discipline, and Oparanozie believes it will again be the foundation against South Africa.
“I will advise the Super Falcons to maintain a compact defensive shape, similar to how they dealt with the Zambian attack and during the group phase without conceding a goal. They should defend narrowly to congest the center and prevent SA strikers from getting clear chances, and ensure there’s no space for them to exploit.”
In contrast, Dlamini sees Banyana Banyana’s creativity through the middle as the possible key to unlocking the Super Falcons’ wall.
“For South Africa, I think the best way to unlock such a solid defence line of Nigeria, I think the best of the tournament so far, is just for them to show great composure in the 18-yard box.
“Be creative with lots of opportunities but their decision-making let them down. Having that composure and clinical finish in front of goal will really be the difference between Nigeria and South Africa.”
She added:“I think our biggest advantage is in the midfield. We have got a good playmaker and creative players with great technical abilities. They have good command of the ball and skills. I believe they can really have the confidence in rotating the ball like we always do to find openings. That might probably be the biggest edge and advantage that South Africa will have over Nigeria.”
Mental Edge and Leadership Will Decide the Outcome
At this stage, physical ability alone isn’t enough — mentality and leadership become defining factors. Oparanozie singled out the importance of Rasheedat Ajibade’s presence.
“Ajibade has been very instrumental in the team’s success thus far. In every way she’s shown exceptional leadership skills both on and off the field. Her vision and passing ability have created scoring opportunities for her teammates, earning her two woman of the match awards at this year’s WAFCON edition. She’s been leading by example. Her experience, leadership, creativity, and vision will be crucial in maintaining the team’s defensive solidity against South Africa. She just has to show up for the team on Tuesday.”
Dlamini acknowledged South Africa’s past template and the absence of key figures like Thembi Kgatlana in leadership, but insisted the players must find motivation within.
“In every game at WAFCON, you need to have development edge when faced with different opponents or oppositions that really develop different tactics and playing style that you need to adapt to. The mental edge against Nigerian team that never really gave up with great physical command on the pitch. They might refer to the tactics that worked back in 2022. We tend to miss that leadership from Thembi Kgatlana. They have to refer to that game. Everybody contributing to the success of the team.”
Margins That Matter: Set Pieces, Precision, and Killer Instinct
Both captains agreed — it’s the small moments that separate champions from contenders. Oparanozie laid out a five-point winning formula: “From experience as someone who’s played in the fierce rivalry. The key factors to beat Bayana Bayana would be: a compact defensive shape, utilise every scoring opportunities (can’t be complacent in front of goal on Tuesday), quick transitions, dominate the midfield, and a bit of individual brilliance.”
Dlamini reinforced the value of mastering set pieces and executing in the final third.
“My final and tactical instructions to the team would be that they need to be confident in the set pieces and themselves. Individually we have got good players with great technical abilities.
“They just need to lean towards their strength when it comes to set pieces because we haven’t seen a lot of people at this WAFCON in implementing training routines when it comes to set pieces. I think South Africa have the technical abilities. The game will be equally balanced.
“They are going to go pound for pound with aggression and hunger to win the match. Sometimes when it comes to final margin, set pieces play crucial role in the game — as Nigeria dominated against Zambia. South Africa should believe in their set piece abilities.”
The Rallying Call — It’s Now or Never
In closing, both legends offered stirring words of motivation to their teams. For Oparanozie, the message was clear.
“Ladies, this is it! You’ve worked hard to get here. Remember the legacy you’re building, it’s #MissionX or nothing. Play for each other, you’ve faced tougher opposition and you’ve come out on top. South Africa will be a challenge, but you’re ready. Let’s go out there and make Nigeria proud. Super Falcons! In God we trust!”
And for Dlamini, belief remains the foundation of history.
“It’s good that South Africa have a consistent squad. Kgatlana is a player that is fearless. When chasing for a title, the ambition is different with the drive and hunger.
“South Africa have to get that mindset of setting a record, for a team to win their first WAFCON title and retain it. That will show lots of maturity to prove critics wrong. I believe our players will still have the hunger, passion and drive to do it back-to-back.”
As Tuesday’s clash approaches, the chessboard is set, the voices of legends have spoken, and now it’s up to the players to etch their names into history.
-CAFonline
Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H
KUNLE SOLAJA.
Nigeria’s Chinwendu Ihezuo moves within striking distance of Golden Boot after Zambia heroics
As the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco heads into its decisive semifinal stage, Nigeria’s Chinwendu Ihezuo has emerged as a strong contender for the tournament’s Golden Boot, following her standout performance in the Super Falcons’ emphatic 5-0 quarterfinal victory over Zambia.
Ihezuo, who scored Nigeria’s third goal in the rout, has now netted three times in the tournament and sits just one goal behind the current joint top scorers — Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak and Senegal’s Nguenar Ndiaye, both on four goals.
With Ndiaye already eliminated following Senegal’s quarterfinal exit at the hands of South Africa, and Chebbak yet to find the net since the group stage, Ihezuo’s rise could not have come at a better time.
The Nigerian striker, in peak form heading into the semifinal clash against defending champions South Africa, remains Nigeria’s best hope of claiming the prestigious top scorer award.
Her goal-scoring instinct and growing confidence are expected to be pivotal as the Super Falcons chase a record-extending 10th continental title.
With Zambia’s prolific duo, Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji—also on three goals each—exiting the tournament after their heavy loss to Nigeria, the path is now clearer for Ihezuo to challenge for individual honours.
Morocco’s Ibtissam Jraïdi, who scored a brace in the hosts’ 3-1 win over Mali, also sits on three goals and will be another player to watch in the final rounds.
However, all eyes in Nigeria will be on Ihezuo as she leads the Falcons’ frontline into what promises to be a thrilling semifinal showdown.
As CAF released its updated Golden Boot standings on Monday, the growing momentum behind Nigeria’s No. 9 has added an extra layer of excitement to the final stages of WAFCON 2024.
Current Top Scorers – CAF WAFCON 2024, Morocco:
4 goals: Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco), Nguenar Ndiaye (Senegal – eliminated)
3 goals: Ibtissam Jraïdi (Morocco), Chinwendu Ihezuo (Nigeria), Barbra Banda (Zambia – eliminated), Racheal Kundananji (Zambia – eliminated)
2 goals: Mama Diop (Senegal – eliminated), Alice Kusi (Ghana), Aissata Traoré (Mali – eliminated), Yasmine Mrabet (Morocco)
Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H
BY KUNLE SOLAJA.
Host nation’s stars lead scoring chart as Morocco push toward WAFCON glory
The 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) is entering its final stretch. Morocco’s captain Ghizlane Chebbak is at the top of the Golden Boot race. The host nation continues its inspiring run on home soil.
Chebbak scored four goals during the group stage. However, she has yet to find the net in the knockout rounds. She still shares the top spot with Senegal’s Nguenar Ndiaye. Ndiaye’s tournament ended following her team’s quarterfinal exit against South Africa.
Chebbak’s lead faces growing pressure. Fellow Moroccan forward Ibtissam Jraïdi has reignited the race. She did so with a clinical brace in the 3-1 quarterfinal victory over Mali.
Her performance brought her tally to three goals. It boosted Morocco’s hopes for a maiden WAFCON title. There is also hope for a possible sweep of individual honours.
Jraïdi plays her club football with Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia. She now joins a small group of active contenders. This group includes Nigeria’s Chinwendu Ihezuo, who is also on three goals. Ihezuo found the net in the Super Falcons’ 5-0 demolition of Zambia.
Zambia’s Racheal Kundananji and Barbra Banda, who each scored three goals, are now eliminated. Senegal’s Ndiaye is also out of the tournament. Morocco’s hopes for Golden Boot glory lie firmly with Chebbak and the in-form Jraïdi.
The Atlas Lionesses are preparing for a highly anticipated semifinal. Excitement continues to build among home fans. They are witnessing a historic campaign filled with team success and individual brilliance.
The possibility of a Moroccan player finishing as the tournament’s top scorer is exciting. It would truly cap a dream WAFCON for the host nation.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) released the updated Golden Boot standings on Monday. Just two games stand between Morocco and potential glory. Both Chebbak and Jraïdi remain central to their country’s pursuit of continental history.
Current Top Scorers – CAF WAFCON 2024, Morocco:
4 goals: Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco), Nguenar Ndiaye (Senegal – eliminated)
3 goals: Ibtissam Jraïdi (Morocco), Chinwendu Ihezuo (Nigeria), Barbra Banda (Zambia – eliminated), Racheal Kundananji (Zambia – eliminated)
2 goals: Mama Diop (Senegal – eliminated), Alice Kusi (Ghana), Aissata Traoré (Mali – eliminated), Yasmine Mrabet (Morocco)
Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H
Only four teams remain in the race, and with each step forward, the stakes soar. After weeks of action, the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco is down to a quartet of continental powerhouses—each carrying a dream, each with a story of grit and ambition.
From Rabat to Casablanca, the semifinals promise drama, emotion, and history in the making.
On Tuesday, the spotlight shifts to two explosive matchups: host nation Morocco face Ghana in Rabat, while defending champions South Africa battle nine-time winners Nigeria in a heavyweight showdown in Casablanca.
Morocco vs Ghana: A Clash of Dreams and Grit
Three years ago, Morocco broke new ground by reaching the WAFCON final. That milestone lit a spark in a nation previously on the periphery of women’s football. In 2024, that spark has become a wildfire.
The Atlas Lionesses are no longer underdogs; they are contenders, driven by a raucous home crowd and the tactical acumen of former Spain coach Jorge Vilda.
Their path to the semifinals has been marked by resilience and flair, best illustrated in their 3-1 quarterfinal triumph over Mali, where talismanic striker Ibtissam Jraïdi bagged a brace to send the Olympic Stadium into raptures.
“There’s chemistry, there’s soul,” Vilda declared after the match. “This team knows how to endure and strike at the right time.”
But Ghana pose a very different threat. The Black Queens have emerged as one of the most determined sides in the competition, playing with a chip on their shoulder.
Dismissed by many ahead of the tournament, they’ve turned that slight into steel. They edged past Algeria in a tense quarterfinal shootout after a goalless draw, thanks largely to goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan’s heroics.
“This team has been underestimated for too long,” Ghana’s Swedish head coach Kim Björkegren said. “We want to shake things up.”
Ghana’s group stage included defending champions South Africa, dangerous Mali, and spirited Tanzania—a gauntlet through which they emerged with four points and the tournament’s best defensive record, conceding just twice.
With Alice Kusi pulling strings in midfield and Chantelle Boye injecting energy into every move, the Ghanaians look poised to upset the hosts.
It’s a contest of opposites: Morocco with the best attacking return (10 goals in four games), Ghana with the stingiest defense.
The atmosphere in Rabat will be electric, but Ghana’s resolve may be equal to the noise. “Playing the host nation is exciting, not pressure,” Kusi said with a grin.
South Africa vs Nigeria: Africa’s Heavyweight Rivalry Reignites
If ever a match deserved to be the final, it’s this. South Africa and Nigeria are two of the continent’s biggest names. Their rivalry is long defined by skill, grit, and championship pedigree. It resurfaces under the bright lights of Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.
Nigeria have looked every inch like the team to beat. The Super Falcons breezed through the group stage with three wins, scoring four goals and conceding none.
Their quarterfinal against Zambia was a masterclass in dominance—a 5-0 victory that sent an ominous message to the rest of the field.
In their ranks, Nigeria boast some of the tournament’s standout performers.
Full-back Michelle Alozie’s overlapping runs have tormented defences, Rasheedat Ajibade has been a midfield engine, and Esther Okoronkwo leads the assist chart with three to her name.
Head coach Justine Madugu appears to have forged a unit that blends experience with cutting-edge.
But South Africa are not to be dismissed. The defending champions had a slower start, including a 1-1 group draw with Tanzania, but when it mattered most, they dug deep.
A goalless draw with Senegal in the quarterfinals led to a penalty shootout, where goalkeeper Andile Dlamini’s saves proved pivotal.
“There’s a fire, a collective memory,” said coach Desiree Ellis. “We know what this match means. We know what it takes to beat Nigeria.”
Indeed, the Banyana Banyana have done it before—most recently at WAFCON 2022, where they defeated Nigeria 2-1 en route to lifting the trophy.
With game-changers like Jermaine Seoposenwe, Hildah Magaia, and Lebogang Ramalepe, they have the tools to spring another surprise.
Statistically, Nigeria lead the pack: most goals scored (9), none conceded. But the margins in this rivalry are razor-thin, and Tuesday’s encounter could be decided by the smallest of details—or the boldest of plays.
A Tournament of Hope and Excellence
The final four are preparing for battle. The 2024 WAFCON has already written a compelling chapter in the story of African women’s football.
The Moroccans are chasing a maiden crown, driven by passionate support and renewed purpose. Ghana are fueled by redemption and resilience.
South Africans aim to make history with back-to-back titles. Nigeria is the most successful nation in the competition’s history. They want to reclaim their throne. Nigeria also wants to remind the continent of their pedigree.
Tuesday’s semifinals are more than matches—they are moments of reckoning, where legacies will be tested and futures forged.
Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H
CAF Launches CHAN 2024 Campaign with “PAMOJA” Theme, Unveils Downloadable Official Poster
Nigeria vs South Africa: Legends Oparanozie, Dlamini Stoke Flames ahead of Titans’ Semifinal Showdown
WTT Contender Lagos 2025 Serves Off Amid Global Excitement and Local Pride
- World Cup5 days ago
FIFA May Shift 2026 World Cup Matches from U.S. to Canada Over Visa and Human Rights Concerns
- OBITUARY5 days ago
BREAKING! Former Super Eagles Coach and Ex-International Monday Sinclair Passes On
- OBITUARY1 week ago
BREAKING: Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Dies at 81
- Nigerian Football6 days ago
Legacy Renewed: Taiwo Lekan-Salami Charts Bold Path for Shooting Stars Revival
- Nigerian Football1 week ago
Ex-NFF President Maigari Pays Solidarity Visit to Recuperating Ibrahim Galadima in Kano
- International Football1 week ago
Veteran coach Van Gaal says he is cured of cancer
- WAFCON1 week ago
Ghana’s hopes hang in the Balance after a 1-1 draw with Mali
- WAFCON2 days ago
WAFCON 2024: It’s Nigeria and South Africa in a Grudge-laden Semifinal