Heartbreak for WAFCON defending champions South Africa as Nigeria's stoppage time strike ends Banyana Banyana's hopes

Nigeria beat the half-time whistle to take the lead when captain Rasheedat Ajibade beat Andile Dlamini from the penalty spot after Karabo Dhlamini had been adjudged to have handled inside the box.

But Banyana got themselves back into the game on the hour mark, also via a penalty when Osinachi Ohale pulled down Hildah Magaia inside the box and Linda Motlhalo took the responsibility to score.

Motlhalo's goal saw the West Africans conceding for the first time in this tournament edition.

As the game seemed headed to extra-time, the Super Falcons reclaimed their lead in stoppage time when Michelle Alozie sent in a fricky cross, which two forwards failed to finish as the ball went straight into the back of the net.

It then ended 2-1 in favour of Nigeria, who remain on course for a 10th WAFCON title.

Nigeria skipper Rasheedat Ajibade led by example in this match and she could also guide them to triumph in the final.

From winning the penalty for Nigeria to converting it herself as well as keeping Banyana defenders on their toes, she enjoyed a good outing.

It was the end of the road for the defending champions, who could not reach the final.

But they might be consoling themselves using the fact that they lost to old foes who have been stretching them to the very last over many years.

Nigeria will now prepare to meet, in the final, the winner between Morocco and Ghana, who were due to meet in the other last-four game.

Banyana Banyana will also face the loser of that semi-final showdown for the battle for bronze.