South Africa’s hopes of defending their WAFCON title ended in heartbreak after a dramatic late winner from Nigeria’s Super Falcons in Tuesday’s semifinal clash, IsaGoal can report.
Desiree Ellis expressed deep frustration over the result, telling reporters that her team gave everything but were undone by key moments that didn’t go their way.
Nigeria opened the scoring through Rasheedat Ajibade’s penalty in the first half, but South Africa struck back in the 60th minute with Linda Motlhalo converting from the spot.
With the game poised to head into extra time, Michelle Alozie stunned the South Africans with a stoppage-time strike that sealed Nigeria’s path to the final.
Ellis remained firm in her belief that the result didn’t reflect the contest, saying, “We didn’t just take our chances, and that kept Nigeria in the game.”
She also said, “Nigeria’s second goal was a freakish goal—everyone missed it, including the goalkeeper.”
Despite South Africa slightly edging possession with 54%, both teams matched each other with nine attempts each, though Nigeria had more shots on target.
Next, Nigeria will face Morocco in the final on Saturday, July 26, as the Super Falcons aim to add another WAFCON title to their collection.
This article was updated 2 days ago