2022 WAFCON: Super Falcons fall to South Africa in opening game
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Banyana Banyana of South Africa defeated champions Super Falcons of Nigeria 2-1 in the first game in Group C, at the 2023 WAFCON in Morocco on Morocco.
The win was a demonstration of South Africa’s dominance over Nigeria in recent years. Before Monday’s clash, the Super Falcons had not won or scored against South Africa in the continental showpiece since 2016 when Desire Oparanozie’s goal separated the sides in the semi-final.
It is now back-to-back wins for South Africa against the Falcons after they triumphed 4-2 in the Aishat Buhari Cup in 2021.
After a goalless first half, two quick goals proved the difference in what was termed the final before final when the draws were held. Jermaine Seoposenwe who returned to the Banyana Banyana set-up for the first time since 2019 broke the deadlock in the 61st minute before Hildah Tholakele Magaia doubled the lead through an unstoppable shot only two minutes later.
Rasheedat Ajibdate scored deep in stoppage time to grab the consolation.
Although ageless captain Onome Ebi and Ashleigh Plumptre impressed on the night, it was not enough to stop Desiree Ellis’ charges from grabbing the first three available points in Group C.
The Falcons will be back in action again on Thursday when they will take on Botswana while South Africa will tackle Burundi.
