Riding high off a commanding 5-0 victory over pre-tournament favorites Zambia, Justine Madugu’s team is focused on reaching the final. However, they must first overcome a significant challenge against Banyana Banyana in Casablanca.
Ahead of the African showdown, Nigeria holds the upper hand over the reigning champions based on previous encounters in the biennial tournament and their strong performance in Morocco.
Nonetheless, the Remo Stars Ladies coach has cautioned the team not to become complacent due to past results, but to view Tuesday’s match as a new beginning in their pursuit of a record-extending tenth African title.
"When you consider the Super Falcons and their objective, their clear goal is to win the trophy," Mathew stated to Flashscore.
"So, regardless of their historical record, whether it's wins or losses against South Africa, they cannot afford to depend on history going into (Tuesday’s) match.
"They must regard this as a new challenge and leave past outcomes behind. Focusing on previous victories or defeats won't be beneficial now. What counts is remaining focused, playing with the intensity and teamwork they displayed in their last game, and striving for the win.
"The team must bring the same resolve and unity that propelled them to that 5-0 triumph, as this semi-final match is critical and they understand what is at stake."
On their path to claiming their first African title three years ago, Desiree Ellis’ squad defeated the Super Falcons 2-1 in the group stage, with goals from Jermaine Seoposenwe and Hildah Magaia, while Rasheedat Ajibade netted Nigeria’s sole response.
South Africa will look to replicate that success at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium. Notably, they are unbeaten in their last 11 matches across all competitions, winning nine of those.
However, they face a significant challenge in breaking through the Super Falcons’ solid defense, which has yet to concede a goal in the tournament.
Super Falcons should not alter what is effective
When asked if Nigeria should keep the formation that allowed them to dismantle the Copper Queens or adjust it to face a Banyana Banyana team missing star striker Thembi Kgatlana, former assistant to Randy Waldrum provided a thoughtful response.
She added: "I don’t believe there’s any need to alter their approach because it is clearly working for them. What they need now is to continue improving.
"So far, I’ve been impressed with their performance in the tournament, particularly in the last match against Zambia, and based on that display, I would rate them above South Africa.
"Their quarter-final match was their first truly defining game, because if you examine 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 demonstrated that Nigeria is truly prepared (for the title). Their tactical approach improved, every player appeared determined to capitalize on their chances, 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 cohesive unit, with no complaints, and demonstrated genuine attacking intent.
"If they can build on that momentum, adhere to a robust game plan, and maintain the same level of intensity and teamwork, they have a strong chance of overcoming South Africa."
The winner of the Nigeria and South Africa match will face either hosts Morocco or the Ghanaian national team in the final, set for July 26 at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.
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