Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has shared her thoughts on Nigeria’s challenging yet triumphant semi-final performance against South Africa at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Justine Madugu’s side booked their place in the final with a narrow 2-1 win over Banyana Banyana at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca on Tuesday night.

Ajibade was instrumental in the victory, opening the scoring for Nigeria with a well-taken penalty late in the first half. Her impressive performance earned her the Woman of the Match award—her third of the tournament.

The Super Falcons also brought an end to South Africa’s impressive 15-match unbeaten run at the WAFCON finals.

Speaking after the match, Ajibade acknowledged the difficulty of the encounter, citing South Africa’s strength and familiarity as long-time rivals.

“We knew it was going to be a tough game, as every match in this tournament has been,” said the 25-year-old. “South Africa is a very strong team. We've faced them in various competitions—Olympic qualifiers, WAFCON—and we came prepared for anything they would throw at us.”

Nigeria will now face hosts Morocco in the final on Saturday in Rabat. The Atlas Lionesses advanced after edging out Ghana 4-2 on penalties in the second semi-final, following a 1-1 draw after extra time.