We know that since readmission in the early 1990s, SA and Nigeria have exchanged blows on the field, with tensions reaching fever point after Bafana Bafana claimed the 1996 Afcon on home soil, which the Super Eagles had boycotted for political reasons.
We have seen that rivalry spill over to the women’s sides and, unfortunately for us, the Super Falcons have dominated. As we report today, in 11 Wafcon games, Nigeria beat SA eight times, but we draw solace from the fact that when the teams last met, Banyana emerged victorious – in the group stage in the last tournament en route to victory.
With nine Wafcon crowns, Nigeria’s Falcons feel Banyana “stole” their title three years ago, and their coach, Justin Madugu, has stated their desire to get it back.
Form points to Nigeria being overwhelming favourites as they have not conceded a goal at this year’s tournament and have scored nine times. While Banyana were extended to 120 minutes in their quarterfinal against Senegal, Nigeria sauntered to a 5-0 romp in theirs against Zambia.
But despite all this, we are confident that Desiree Ellis’s team can once again see off the old enemy and qualify for Saturday’s final.
After all, Banyana have confounded sceptics and form before. We wish them luck as they aim to cause an upset this evening.
SowetanLIVE