The 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) has lived up to its billing — dramatic goals, missed penalties, last-gasp saves, and shootout thrillers have all characterised a tournament rich in spectacle and tension. Now, only four teams remain.
With the semi-finals set for Tuesday, fans are bracing for two high-stakes encounters that promise more drama, skill, and history in the making.
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Nigeria vs South Africa
Time: 5pm | Venue: Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca
Nine-time champions Nigeria face reigning title holders South Africa in a mouthwatering semi-final that pitches pedigree against defiance.
Nigeria, unbeaten and unbreached in this year’s competition, come into the clash with momentum on their side. A devastating 5–0 quarter-final win over Zambia underlined their resurgence, with the Super Falcons scoring nine unanswered goals throughout the tournament so far.
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But they face a formidable foe in South Africa — the Banyana Banyana — who edged past Senegal on penalties after a gruelling 120-minute stalemate. Goalkeeper Andile Dlamini was the hero, saving twice in the shootout to steer Desiree Ellis’ side into the last four.
South Africa boast the most diverse scoring record in the competition, with seven different players finding the net. Their group-stage form and penalty composure speak of a tactically astute and mentally resolute squad.
The historical rivalry tilts in Nigeria’s favour — 15 wins in 23 meetings — but the tide may be turning. South Africa have won three of the last five encounters, including a notable 2–1 victory in the 2022 group stage. The contest is no longer a foregone conclusion; it is now a continental rivalry laced with vengeance, growth, and ambition.
Morocco vs Ghana
Time: 8pm | Venue: Stade Olympique, Rabat
Later in the evening, host nation Morocco face Ghana’s Black Queens in a semi-final that marked a milestone return for both sides.
For Ghana, it’s their first semi-final appearance since 2016 — and a chance to reach the WAFCON final for the first time in nearly two decades. Their journey has been dogged, beginning with a defeat to South Africa and a draw against Mali, before a 4–1 group-stage win over Tanzania revived hopes. A goalless quarter-final against Algeria was decided on penalties, with goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan delivering two vital saves.
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Morocco, by contrast, have looked every bit the tournament favourites. Runners-up in 2022 and now aiming to go one better on home soil, the Atlas Lionesses have scored more than any other team — 10 goals — and dispatched Mali 3–1 in the quarter-finals. Star forward Ibtissam Jraïdi netted a brace in that match, while captain Ghizlane Chebbak leads the tournament scoring chart with four goals.
Though their head-to-head with Ghana is limited to friendlies — with Morocco leading 3–2 across five meetings — the stakes on Tuesday will be far higher. The Moroccans are chasing history, backed by fervent home support; the Ghanaians are hunting redemption and legacy.
