The 2024 TotalEnergies Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), which is being held in 2025, reaches its most electrifying stage as African women's football giants Nigeria clash with defending champions South Africa in a highly anticipated semi-final. This monumental encounter is set for today, Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at 6:00 PM WAT (7:00 PM EAT in Kenya). The historic Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, Morocco, will be the battleground for what is widely dubbed "a final before the final."
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The Context: Unbeaten Dominance vs. Gritty Defending Champions
This semi-final pits two of the continent's most formidable teams against each other, both with distinct journeys to this stage.
Nigeria, the "Super Falcons," are the undisputed record nine-time WAFCON champions and have been in scintillating form throughout this tournament. They have truly looked "reborn," winning all their group-stage matches and then delivering a stunning 5-0 demolition of Zambia in the quarter-finals. What's even more impressive is their defensive record: they have not conceded a single goal throughout the tournament, scoring nine unanswered goals. This defensive solidity, marshaled by players like Ashleigh Plumptre and Oluwatosin Demehin, combined with the attacking prowess of stars like Esther Okoronkwo (who has scored), Chinwendu Ihezuo, and Rasheedat Ajibade, makes them a daunting opponent. While a global icon like Asisat Oshoala still has an extra gear to go, the collective performance of Justin Madugu's side has been exceptional.
South Africa, the "Banyana Banyana," are the reigning WAFCON champions, having clinched their maiden title in 2022 by famously defeating Nigeria in the group stage. Their path to the semi-finals has been more arduous but equally impressive, showcasing their composure and tactical structure. After a strong group stage including a 4-0 win over Mali and a 2-0 victory over Ghana (with a 1-1 draw against Tanzania), they endured a tense goalless quarter-final against Senegal, ultimately winning 4-1 on penalties. This resilience highlights their mental fortitude. While some of their key attacking stars like Jermaine Seoposenwe, Hildah Magaia, and Lebogang Ramalepe haven't fully impressed according to some reports, they are all capable of turning a game on its head. Goalkeeper Andile Dlamini also played a heroic role in the penalty shootout.
Head-to-Head: A Storied and Evolving Rivalry
The rivalry between Nigeria and South Africa is arguably the most significant in African women's football, layered in history, pride, and numerous high-stakes encounters.
Overall Record: Nigeria traditionally dominates the overall head-to-head, winning 15 of the 23 past meetings. South Africa has won 4, with 4 draws.
Recent Competitive Matches: The narrative has shifted in recent years.
South Africa has won three of the past five competitive meetings against Nigeria.
Crucially, Banyana Banyana defeated Nigeria 2-1 in the group stage of WAFCON 2022, a victory that propelled them to their first-ever WAFCON title.
Their most recent encounters were in the Olympic Qualifiers in April 2024, where Nigeria won both legs 1-0.
This recent history indicates that while Nigeria holds the overall advantage, South Africa has proven they can beat the Super Falcons, especially in competitive tournament settings. This "final before the final" promises to be an intensely fought battle.
Tactical Battleground: Nigeria's Prowess vs. South Africa's Resolve
This semi-final will be a compelling tactical duel between two well-coached teams:
Nigeria will likely stick to the high-pressing, attacking style that has served them so well. Their disciplined defense will aim to stifle South Africa's creative players, while their fast and physical forwards will look to break down Banyana Banyana's backline. The Super Falcons' ability to score from multiple sources makes them unpredictable. Coach Justin Madugu will want his team to maintain their unbeaten and unbreached record.
South Africa under Desiree Ellis will focus on their tactical structure and defensive solidity. They will aim to frustrate Nigeria's potent attack, absorb pressure, and then launch quick counter-attacks, leveraging the speed of their wingers and forwards. Their composure, as demonstrated in the penalty shootout against Senegal, will be vital if the game goes down to the wire. Desiree Ellis is known for her meticulous game plans, and she will have a specific strategy to counter Nigeria's strengths.
The key individual battles will be enthralling: Nigeria's dynamic attackers against South Africa's solid defensive unit, and the midfield maestros fighting for control of the game. The goalkeeping duel between Nigeria's Chiamaka Nnadozie (if she starts) and South Africa's Andile Dlamini will also be a major factor.
Where to Watch: Pan-African and Global Coverage
The 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals are being broadcast across multiple platforms to ensure widespread coverage:
SuperSport (DStv/GOtv): As the official broadcaster across Sub-Saharan Africa, SuperSport will air both semi-final matches live, offering multi-language commentary and extensive pre- and post-match analysis. For viewers in Kenya, SuperSport channels on DStv and GOtv, along with KBC and Azam, are confirmed sources.
SNRT (Al Aoula & Arryadia): Moroccan state TV channels will provide live coverage within Morocco.
New World TV: Selected French-language coverage will be available across West and Central Africa.
Online & International Streaming:
CAF TV (YouTube): CAF will stream selected semi-final matches live and offer highlights globally, especially for viewers without access to regional broadcasters.
FIFA+: Some semi-final matches may be available to stream for free via FIFA's digital platform, subject to licensing agreements.
Broadcaster Apps: SuperSport and SNRT apps also offer live streaming for authenticated users in their respective regions.
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Confirmed Lineups and Formations: Stay informed with the official starting XIs and tactical setups as soon as they are released, providing crucial insights into each team's approach.
Pre-match Previews and Post-match Reports: Read expert analysis, predictions, and in-depth summaries of the match outcome, giving you a full picture of the encounter.
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The Ultimate Showdown
The Nigeria vs. South Africa semi-final is set to be a classic, delivering on the promise of African women's football at its best. It's a battle for pride, a clash of styles, and a direct path to the WAFCON 2024 final. Expect a fiercely contested match, brimming with passion, skill, and unforgettable moments as these two giants vie for continental supremacy.
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