Two tantalizing semi-finals are set to light up the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco on Tuesday.
First, Casablanca plays host to a heavyweight clash as nine time champions Nigeria face off against the reigning titleholders, South Africa, at 16:00 GMT.
Then in Rabat at 19:00, tournament hosts Morocco go head-to-head with Ghana, the lowest ranked side still in the running.
There’s a possibility of revisiting the 2022 final, where South Africa edged past Morocco 2-1. But with form on their side, Nigeria and Morocco could be poised to meet in what many expect to be the title decider.
Nigeria’s emphatic 5-0 victory over Zambia in the quarter-finals sent shockwaves across the continent. Former Super Falcons striker Desire Oparanozie praised the team’s “winning mentality,” calling their dominant display a true reflection of Nigeria’s stature.
Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie echoed the sentiment, saying, “Big games define Nigeria.” The team’s bid for a record 10th title nicknamed Mission X has yet to see them concede a goal.
South Africa, meanwhile, battled through a grueling quarter-final, needing penalties to edge past Senegal after a goalless draw. Despite having less rest and facing travel challenges, coach Desiree Ellis refused to dwell on it: “Resilience, courage, and a never say die attitude that’s what defines this team.”
Nigeria and South Africa’s long standing rivalry adds extra fire to the fixture. Nigeria triumphed in past finals (2000 and 2018), but South Africa got the better of them in 2022 group play. Oparanozie warned, “This semi-final won’t be easy. South Africa might be the one team standing in Nigeria’s way.”
In the other semi-final, Morocco continue their impressive campaign after a 3-1 win over Mali. Coach Jorge Vilda who led Spain to World Cup glory in 2023 believes the passionate home crowd will be crucial: “From the first moment, they’ve backed us. We aim for the final.”
Ghana, back in the semis for the first time since 2016, had to dig deep against Algeria, winning on penalties. Coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren isn’t worried about the atmosphere in Rabat: “A home crowd can work both ways. If we score early, it could change everything.”
With Morocco and Ghana chasing their first ever WAFCON title and the prize money now doubled to $1 million, there’s more than glory on the line. A sleek new trophy awaits the winner, while tactical innovation especially from Morocco shows the evolving strength of African women’s football.
