Banyana Banyana have failed to defend their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title, falling to Nigeria in the semi-finals.

Nigeria edged archrivals South Africa 2-1 in a pulsating last-four clash played on Tuesday evening at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco.

In a match billed as a “final before the final,” Rasheedat Ajibade and Michelle Alozie delivered when it mattered most, scoring on either side of a Linda Motlhalo penalty to help the Super Falcons avenge their 2022 group stage loss to Banyana Banyana and underline their dominance on African soil.

Ajibade broke the deadlock just before the break with a composed finish from the penalty spot after a handball by Bambanani Mbane in the South African box.

The goal crowned Nigeria’s first-half superiority, as they dictated the tempo with a disciplined defence and sharp transitions, with Alozie and Ihezuo probing constantly.

South Africa, the defending champions, came out fighting in the second half and were rewarded in the 60th minute with a penalty after a foul in the box.

Motlhalo made no mistake from the spot to level the scores and swing the momentum temporarily Banyana’s way.

But just as extra time loomed, Alozie struck a sensational long-range winner deep into stoppage time.

Her 35-yard effort swerved past goalkeeper Andile Dlamini and sparked wild celebrations among the Nigerian players and fans inside the Larbi Zaouli Stadium.

To make matters worse for Banyana Banyana, Gabriela Salgado was stretchered off the field with a broken leg. The players from both ends were inconsolable.

In the other semifinal, hosts Morocco overcame Ghana on penalties.

Nigeria will then play Morocco in the decider in Rabat on Saturday, 26 July.

Banyana Banyana will be looking to head home with the bronze medal when they entertain Ghana in the third/fourth place playoff in Casablanca on Friday, 25 July.