Riding high off a dominant 5-0 triumph over pre-tournament favorites Zambia, Justine Madugu’s ladies are setting their sights on the final. But first, they’ll have to navigate a tough challenge against Banyana Banyana in Casablanca.
Ahead of the African classic, Nigeria hold the advantage over the reigning champions based on previous meetings in the biennial tournament and their impressive form in Morocco.
Regardless, the Remo Stars Ladies handler has warned the team not to be carried away by past results but to view Tuesday’s fixture as a fresh start in their quest to win a record-extending tenth African title.
"When you look at the Super Falcons and their mission, their clear target is winning the trophy," Mathew told Flashscore.
"So, regardless of their past record, whether it's victories or losses against South Africa, they can’t afford to rely on history going into (Tuesday’s) game.
"They must treat this as a fresh challenge and leave past results behind. Dwelling on previous wins or defeats won’t help now. What matters is staying focused, playing with the intensity and cohesion they showed in their last match, and going all out for the win.
"The team must bring the same determination and unity that powered them to that 5-0 victory, because this semi-final game is crucial and they know what is at stake."
On their way to claiming a maiden African title three years ago, Desiree Ellis’ side defeated the Super Falcons 2-1 in the group stage, with goals from Jermaine Seoposenwe and Hildah Magaia, while Rasheedat Ajibade scored Nigeria’s lone reply.
South Africa will be aiming to replicate that feat at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium. Impressively, they are unbeaten in their last 11 matches across all competitions, winning nine of them.
However, they face a formidable challenge in breaking down the Super Falcons’ watertight defense, which is yet to concede a goal in the tournament.
Super Falcons should not fix what is not broken
When asked whether Nigeria should maintain the formation that saw them dismantle the Copper Queens or tweak it to face a Banyana Banyana side missing star striker Thembi Kgatlana, former assistant to Randy Waldrum offered a measured response.
She added: "I don’t think there’s any need to change their pattern because it is clearly working for them. What they need now is to keep improving.
"So far, I’ve been impressed with their performance in the competition especially in the last game against Zambia and based on that showing, I would rate them ahead of South Africa.
"Their quarter-final outing was their first truly defining game, because if you look at their first three matches, there were a lot of mixed reactions especially from fans. But that match and the scoreline silenced many critics.
"That match showed Nigeria are truly ready (for the title). Their tactical approach improved, every player seemed determined to make their chances count and they created numerous opportunities in a game many doubted they'd win.
"What stood out most was their renewed spirit as they played as a united team, with no complaints, and showing real attacking intent.
"If they can build on that momentum, stick to a solid game plan, and maintain the same level of intensity and teamwork, they stand a strong chance of getting the better of South Africa."
The winner of the Nigeria and South Africa clash will face either hosts Morocco or the Ghanaian national team in the final, scheduled for July 26 at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.
