WAFCON Round Up: Nigeria Roar, Banyana Survive, and Morocco Dream Big

It took until the quarterfinals, but the real drama of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations finally came alive this past weekend. From Nigeria’s statement win to South Africa’s shaky but gutsy survival and Morocco’s red-hot home run, WAFCON 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable editions yet.

Nigeria: The Super Falcons Find Their Wings

If there was any doubt about Nigeria’s title credentials, they were put to rest in Casablanca. The Super Falcons finally shifted into full gear, hammering Zambia 5-0 in a performance that oozed dominance, swagger, and sharp intent.

After a wobbly group stage that had critics questioning coach Justin Madugu’s tactics, Nigeria opened the scoring within two minutes — and never looked back. Goals came from all corners: Osinachi Ohale, Rasheedat Ajibade, and even a surprise strike from Folashade Ijamilusi, who was handed a rare start and made it count.

The Super Falcons, nine-time champions, reminded Africa why they’re still the standard. This was more than a win — it was a warning. The so-called “Big Four” of WAFCON had better pay attention.

“The coach’s job is a thankless one,” Madugu said after the match. “But I believe in what we’re doing. We don’t let the noise distract us.”

Zambia Crash Again When it Matters Most

Zambia’s Copper Queens have had a meteoric rise in recent years, making it to World Cups and Olympic Games. But their WAFCON dream continues to stall when it counts. Against Nigeria, their defence crumbled and their attacking stars, Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, were completely nullified.

Swiss coach Nora Hauptle knows she’s working with a golden generation. But unless Zambia shores up their backline, this team might continue to flatter to deceive. As fans back home vented on X (formerly Twitter), many were left asking: how do you score nine goals in the group stage and walk away with nothing in the quarters?

Banyana Banyana: Nerves of Steel, But Missing Their Shine

Source: Banyana Banyana on X

Meanwhile, defending champions South Africa scraped through by the skin of their teeth. It took a penalty shootout to get past a spirited Senegalese side after a frustrating 0-0 draw — and once again, goalkeeper Andile Dlamini was the hero.

But this was not the slick Banyana we’ve come to expect. Without Thembi Kgatlana, Desiree Ellis’ team seemed to lack the creative spark needed to break down compact defences. Linda Motlhalo still pulls the strings in midfield, but the front line needs a finisher with that killer instinct.

Locals are calling for more minutes for Ronnie Donnelly, the teenage “star girl” who scored on debut earlier in the tournament. Whether Ellis will take that risk in the semifinal against Nigeria remains to be seen.

Ghana’s revival: A quiet threat

Source: CAF Women’s Football on X

Long left out of the conversation, Ghana’s Black Queens are quietly forcing their way back into Africa’s elite. After edging Algeria on penalties, they’re into the semis for the first time since 2016. It’s been a long road back, and while their form has been patchy, there’s undeniable promise in players like Evelyn Badu and Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, who dazzled on the wing in their quarterfinal.

If they can put together a 90-minute performance, Morocco may be in for a surprise.

Morocco’s Golden Moment?

Source: CAF Women’s Football on X 

Speaking of the hosts, Morocco have turned Rabat into a fortress. Packed stadiums, a charismatic coach in Spain’s Jorge Vilda, and a well-balanced squad have made the Lionesses genuine title contenders.

Veterans like Ghizlane Chebbak are leading the charge, but it’s the new additions — Europe-based talents like Sakina Ouzraoui and Kenza Chapelle — who have brought fresh firepower. After reaching the final in 2022, anything less than gold at home will feel like a missed opportunity.

What’s next?

The semifinals are set:

• Nigeria vs South Africa  a clash of giants and a repeat of the 2018 final.

• Morocco vs Ghana the new power against the old guard.

The heat is on. The stakes are sky-high. And in a tournament that’s already defied expectations, don’t rule out another shock.

Source:ESPN Africa 

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