With Nigeria’s emphatic 5-0 thrashing of Zambia securing their place in the semifinals of the 2024 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), all eyes are now firmly fixed on Saturday’s quarterfinal showdown between defending champions South Africa vs. Senegal.
And no nation is watching more closely than Nigeria, who will face the winner of that tie for a place in the final.
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From Lagos to Abuja, Nigerian fans are glued to the unfolding drama of WAFCON 2024. After the Super Falcons’ masterclass performance on Friday night in Casablanca — featuring goals from Osinachi Ohale, Esther Okoronkwo, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Blessing Demehin, and Falilat Ijamilusi — anticipation has shifted toward their next potential opponent.
Nigeria Ready, but Who Awaits?
Saturday’s clash between South Africa’s Banyana Banyana and the Senegalese Teranga Lionesses promises fireworks. Nigeria’s head coach Justin Madugu admitted after the Zambia win that the team would be watching the match with interest:
“We’ve done our part and now we wait. Whether it’s South Africa or Senegal, we’re ready — but it’s going to be a great game to watch.”
South Africa: The Defending Champions
South Africa come into the quarterfinals unbeaten, scoring seven goals through seven different scorers — a demonstration of both depth and versatility. Head coach Dr. Desiree Ellis, who boasts a remarkable record of 14 unbeaten WAFCON matches in open play, is aiming to guide her side closer to back-to-back titles.
Key players like Linda Motlhalo, Lebohang Ramalepe, and goalkeeper Andile Dlamini have all hit top form, and their recent record against West African sides — including Nigeria — is formidable.
But Banyana Banyana will need to bring their A-game. Senegal’s physical presence, high energy, and growing tactical discipline pose a serious challenge.
Senegal: Gunning for History
For Senegal, this quarterfinal presents a golden opportunity to make history by reaching their first-ever WAFCON semifinal. Under head coach Moussa Cisse, the Lionesses have shown grit, scoring six goals and proving their mettle against tough opponents like Zambia and Morocco.
“We are challengers, not favorites, and that gives us freedom,” Cisse said. “Beating the African champions would mean everything for our nation.”
Senegalese fans believe this is the most talented squad in their WAFCON history, with players like Pascaline Fofana Bassene leading the line and creating a real buzz of optimism.
A Rivalry Waiting to Rekindle
For Nigerian supporters, a clash with South Africa would rekindle one of the continent’s fiercest rivalries. The Banyana Banyana defeated Nigeria in the group stage of WAFCON 2022, and the Super Falcons have not forgotten.
But facing Senegal would be a fresh test against a side hungry for a breakthrough — and with less historical baggage, but no less ambition.
Fans on Edge
Social media in Nigeria is already buzzing with predictions and debates. Hashtags like #WAFCON2024, #NigeriaWantsRevenge, and #SuperFalconsReady are trending, as fans call for a rematch with South Africa, while others express curiosity over how Nigeria would match up against the increasingly confident Senegalese.
As the quarterfinal kicks off at the Honneur Stadium in Oujda on Saturday, one thing is certain — Nigeria will be watching, waiting, and preparing.
WAFCON 2024 Semifinal Picture So Far:
Nigeria – Qualified after 5-0 win over Zambia
South Africa vs. Senegal – Saturday, July 20 | Winner faces Nigeria
