Key stats as Nigeria, South Africa battle for spot in WAFCON final

Femi Fabunmi

For a spot in the final of the 2025 WAFCON, the Super Falcons of Nigeria will slug it out with Bayana Bayana of South Africa today, Tuesday July 22nd in the first semi final match in Casablanca, Morocco.

Background and Rivalry

Nigeria is the most successful team in WAFCON history, with nine titles. South Africa, the current champions, won their first title in 2022 and are aiming to reach the final for the third time in a row.

To reach this stage, Nigeria crushed Zambia 5–0 in the quarter-finals, while South Africa narrowly beat Senegal on penalties after a 1–1 draw in extra time.

Head-to-Head Record

Nigeria and South Africa have played against each other 10 times in WAFCON. Nigeria has won 8 of those matches, while South Africa has won twice — including in the 2018 group stage and the 2022 tournament. Overall, they’ve faced off 23 times, with Nigeria winning 15, South Africa 4, and 4 draws.

Key Players to Watch

Nigeria

• Esther Okoronkwo (Forward – AFC Toronto): She is the top assist provider in the tournament with four assists and scored in the 5–0 win against Zambia.
• Rasheedat Ajibade (Captain): A standout performer with two “Woman of the Match” awards in four games.
• Chinwe Ihezuo (Forward – Pachuca): Top scorer for Nigeria with three goals, including a vital late winner against Botswana.
• Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, and Ashley Plumptre: Key defenders who have kept Nigeria’s goal safe throughout the tournament — the team hasn’t conceded a single goal.

South Africa

• Jermaine Seoposenwe, Hildah Magaia, and Lebogang Ramalepe: Experienced attackers capable of breaking down tough defences.
• Hildah Magaia scored two goals in the 2022 WAFCON final. She hasn’t scored yet in this edition but remains crucial to the team’s performance.

Match Details

• Date: Tuesday, July 22, 2025
• Time: 5:00 PM (WAT / Nigerian time)
• Venue: Stade Larbi Zaouli, Casablanca, Morocco

Final Ticket Up For Grabs

This is more than a semi-final match — it’s about pride, legacy, and a place in Saturday’s final.

Nigeria is chasing a record 10th WAFCON title, a mission they call “Mission X”. South Africa wants to prove they are not just the defending champions but a new powerhouse in African women’s football.

Fans can expect a tense, exciting, and skill-filled game as these two giants battle for a spot in the final.

The winner of this tie will play either Morocco or Ghana in the final on Saturday.