Discover how WAFCON 2024 is uniting and electrifying African communities as Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, and Morocco reach the semi-finals. The tournament’s energy and breakthrough moments highlight new opportunities for women and inspire pride from Rabat to Lagos, Accra to Johannesburg.
WAFCON 2024 Semi-Final Showdown: Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana & Morocco Set the Continent Alight
Tournament Recap
Morocco’s vibrant stadiums have once again become the heart of African women’s football as the top four powerhouses—Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, and Morocco—take center stage in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 semi-finals. This showcase of talent and tenacity follows a dramatic tournament, rescheduled to accommodate the Paris Olympics and featuring twelve elite teams battling for glory across six Moroccan cities.
Quarter-Final Highlights
Nigeria 5–0 Zambia
The Super Falcons soared with a clinical and dominant performance, led by Chinwendu Ihezuo and standout contributions from Rasheedat Ajibade and Esther Okoronkwo. Nigeria reaffirmed their status as Africa’s most formidable women’s team with their record tenth title firmly in sight.
South Africa 0–0 Senegal (4–1 pens)
Banyana Banyana’s defense, marshaled by goalkeeper Andile Dlamini, held strong through 120 minutes before triumphing in a penalty shootout. Their composure set up another classic showdown against old foes, Nigeria.
Ghana 0–0 Algeria (4–2 pens)
The Black Queens survived a tense penalty decider, thanks to two crucial saves from Cynthia Konlan. They now aim for their first finals appearance in nearly two decades, showing resilience after a rocky group stage.
Morocco 3–1 Mali
In front of a thunderous home crowd, Morocco outclassed Mali with two goals from Ibtissam Jraidi and a late strike from Kenza Chapelle, highlighting their attacking depth and setting the stage for a high-octane semi against Ghana.
Match Previews
Nigeria vs South Africa: Rivalry Reignited
This semi-final is loaded with history and pride, pitting nine-time champions Nigeria against South Africa, the reigning queens who dethroned the Super Falcons in 2022. Both teams arrive undefeated, featuring some of Africa’s finest talents:
The teams are evenly matched in recent encounters, with Nigeria historically dominant but South Africa closing the gap. This encounter is both a battle for supremacy and a potential symbolic power shift in African women’s football.
Morocco vs Ghana: Hosts Seek History, Ghana Chase Redemption
Morocco, buoyed by the home crowd and momentum from a runners-up finish in 2022, stands as the tournament’s top scorers with 10 goals, led by:
Ghizlane Chebbak (joint-top scorer, captain),
Ibtissam Jraidi (match-winner vs Mali, vital offensive threat),
Kenza Chapelle (clinical finisher).
Ghana’s Black Queens, aiming to end a decades-long trophy drought, bring rugged midfield play and a never-say-die spirit, with goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan’s penalty heroics a highlight of their run so far. Morocco holds a slight edge in previous meetings, but both sides have the tools for a dramatic result.
Why WAFCON 2024 Matters
Increased Prize Money & Investment: CAF doubled the winner’s purse and boosted overall prize money, enhancing incentives for teams and players.
Continental Impact & Coverage: Robust media presence, expanded social media engagement, new tournament branding, and a revamped trophy are raising visibility continent-wide.
Atmosphere & Legacy: Packed stadiums and surging fan engagement signal a turning point for women’s sport across Africa, showcasing seasoned stars and emerging talents, and fueling fresh opportunities for girls and women in football.
The Stage is Set
With Rabat hosting Africa’s best in tonight’s semi-finals, the stakes could not be higher.
Whether it’s Nigeria’s dynasty, South Africa’s rise, Ghana’s quest for redemption, or Morocco’s homecoming dream, WAFCON 2024 is a powerful testament to unity, progress, and passion in African women’s football.
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