Everything is now arranged for the semi-finals of the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, featuring the defending champions South Africa, Ghana, the nine-time title winners Nigeria, and the hosts Morocco all competing for a place in the final, scheduled for July 26 at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.

After a sluggish start, the Super Falcons found their rhythm with a commanding 5-0 quarter-final victory over Zambia. The hosts, Morocco, inspired by a brace from Ibtissam Jraidi, comfortably overcame Mali 3-1 to secure their semi-final position.

The reigning champions South Africa narrowly defeated Senegal on penalties after a tense goalless draw, while Ghana also maintained their composure in a shootout triumph over Algeria in Berkane.

At the conclusion of what promises to be an exhilarating round, two teams will emerge to vie for the continent’s premier prize in women’s football.

Nigeria rekindles rivalry with South Africa

The eagerly awaited match between the Super Falcons and Banyana Banyana is the highlight of the semi-finals of the 2024 WAFCON.

Scheduled to occur at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, this match marks the 11th encounter between these two African giants in the tournament’s history, a rivalry that dates back to November 25, 2000.

Despite Nigeria having the advantage with seven victories in their last ten encounters against the Southern Africans, they will face a tough challenge this time. Desiree Ellis’ squad famously defeated the Super Falcons on their path to winning their first African title two years ago and will be eager to replicate that success.

Coach Justine Madugu will depend on the attacking pair of Chinwendu Ihezuo and Rinsola Babajide to lead Nigeria’s pursuit of victory. The Super Falcons remain the only team yet to concede in the tournament, thanks to the solid defensive duo of Osinachi Ohale and Ashley Plumptre, along with the reliable presence of goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.

South Africa - missing star forward Thembi Kgatlana and possibly feeling the strain from their 120-minute contest against Senegal - still represent a significant threat. The nine-time champions must be wary of Jermaine Seoposenwe, Hildah Magaia, and Lebogang Ramalepe, all of whom possess the ability to change the game in a heartbeat.

When is the game and how can I watch it?

Matchup: Nigeria vs South Africa

Date: Tuesday, July 22, 2025

Location: Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca

Time: 18:00 (West African Time)

Television Channels: SuperSport, SABC 3

Nigeria probable XI: Nnadozie, Ayinde, Plumptre, Ohale, Alozie, Echegini, Ajibade, Demehin, Ihezuo, Ijamilusi, Okoronkwo

South Africa probable XI: Dlamini, Jane, Dhlamini, Makhubela, Magama, Mbane, Motlhalo, Seoposenwe, Holweni, Ramalepe, Magaia

Black Queens aiming to end a 19-year drought

Ghana enters this semi-final clash filled with confidence following a thrilling penalty shootout win over Algeria in the quarter-finals.

With momentum and belief on their side, the Black Queens will strive to keep their dream alive by defeating hosts Morocco and securing a place in the final.

Historically, the Ghanaians have the upper hand in this matchup, having triumphed over the Atlas Lionesses 3-0 in their only previous WAFCON encounter back in 2000. However, the circumstances have changed significantly since then.

The North Africans, currently ranked 60th in the world - six spots ahead of the West Africans - have gained prominence, especially as hosts. The Atlas Lionesses have been efficient in front of goal, scoring a tournament-high 10 goals in just four matches.

Unbeaten in their last eight games since April, Jorge Vilda’s squad has yet to falter and will be supported by a passionate home crowd in Rabat.

Conversely, the Ghanaians are experiencing a revival and are in their first semi-final since 2016. Although they have only won four of their last 12 competitive matches, they have exhibited resilience and determination throughout this tournament.

With Morocco’s offensive prowess and Ghana’s renewed fighting spirit, this semi-final is set to be a fiercely contested battle with everything at stake.

When is the game and how can I watch it?

Matchup: Ghana vs Morocco

Date: Tuesday, July 22, 2025

Location: Olympic Stadium, Rabat

Time: 21:00 (West African Time)

Television Channels: SuperSport, SABC 3

Morocco probable XI: Er-Rmichi, Badri, Redouani, Benzina, At El Haj, Ouzraoui Diki, Rabbah, Chebbak, Jraidi, Mrabet, Tagnaout

Ghana probable XI: Konlan, Marfo, Bonsu, Yeboah, Duah, Cudjoe, Boakye, Asantewaa, Nyamekye, Boaduwaa, Boye-Hlorkah