First, it’s a heavyweight clash in Casablanca as nine-time champions Nigeria take on title holders South Africa at 4:00 PM GMT. Then, at 7:00 PM in Rabat, hosts Morocco face Ghana, the lowest-ranked side left in the tournament.
There’s still a chance we could see a rematch of the 2022 final, where South Africa edged Morocco 2-1. But Nigeria and Morocco are the on-paper favorites. A potential all-West African final is also in the mix and would add even more spice to a tournament that’s already delivered plenty of memorable moments.
There’s added motivation too. The Confederation of African Football has doubled the prize money to $1 million and revealed a brand-new trophy. For Ghana or Morocco, either of whom has never won the tournament, this could be a historic first.
Nigeria and South Africa: Rivalry Rekindled
Nigeria sent out a clear message in the quarterfinals, thrashing Zambia 5-0 in Casablanca. Even former striker Desire Oparanozie admitted the result was a surprise, calling it “unexpected” but praising the team for rising to the occasion.“This team shows up when it matters,” she said. “They reminded everyone why they’re considered the giants of African football.”
Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie echoed that mindset, saying, “Big games define Nigeria. We want to keep this mentality going.”
South Africa, meanwhile, had to dig deep. They edged past Senegal on penalties after a goalless draw and had one less day to recover, plus a long trip from Berkane. But coach Desiree Ellis isn’t making excuses.
“This team is something special. Their courage, resilience, and unity—it's hard to put into words,” she said.
Historically, Nigeria has beaten South Africa in WAFCON finals before, in 2000 and 2018. But in 2022, Banyana Banyana came out on top in the group stage.
Oparanozie believes this clash will be Nigeria’s toughest yet. “If there’s one team that can stop Mission X”—Nigeria’s bid for a record-extending tenth title “it’s South Africa.”
Morocco Chasing Another Final on Home Soil
Morocco are dreaming of back-to-back WAFCON finals after a confident 3-1 win over Mali. Their fans have played a massive role, packing the stadium and lifting the team at every moment.Coach Jorge Vilda, who led Spain to World Cup glory in 2023, is hoping the home support keeps coming.
“The fans have been with us from the start,” he said. “We want to reach the final, and we’re focused on making that happen.”
Standing in their way are Ghana, who last made the semi-finals in 2016. They got past Algeria on penalties after a tight 0-0 draw. Despite the expected crowd, Ghana coach Kim Bjorkegren isn’t worried.
“Yes, it helps to play at home,” he said. “But if we score first, it changes everything. A silent stadium can work in our favor.”
He believes Morocco are strong but not unbeatable. “They’ve got weaknesses like everyone else.”
Vilda's Tactical Edge
Since arriving in October 2023, Vilda has brought a more fluid, tactical style to Morocco. Moroccan journalist Saad Moufakkir says the Spanish coach has added a new dimension to the team.“He’s given us more structure,” Moufakkir said. “We can attack in multiple ways, whether it’s down the wings or through the middle. We can press high or wait and counter. This variety has made us much more dangerous.”
With a possible shot at glory and a home crowd behind them, Morocco’s hopes are high. But so are the stakes for Nigeria, South Africa, and Ghana—three teams with everything to play for.
Tuesday’s semi-finals promise excitement, emotion, and possibly, the start of a new chapter in African women’s football.
