Falcons through to AWCON final

The Super Falcons of Nigeria on Tuesday defeated Banyana Banyana of South Africa 1-0 to advance to the final of the ongoing 10th edition of African Women Cup of Nation (AWCON) in Cameroon.

Nigeria survived a big scare by the South Africans who dominated most part of the game especially the first half but failed to make their superiority count.

It was a barren first half, although Banyana had the ball at the back of the net in the 37th minute but was cancelled for offside.

Falcons started the second half with purpose and were rewarded with a goal when Oparanozie blasted home a free kick in the 54th minute of the game.

Banyana had chances of their own to draw level but Alaba Jonathan in goal for Nigeria was in fine form as she thwarted several goal opportunities.

A penalty shout by Asisat Oshoala, who was fouled in the box in the 85th minute, was ignored by the referee.

Meanwhile, earlier in the day, hosts Cameroon pipped Ghana 1-0 to advance to their fourth women’s AFCON final.

The match winner for Cameroon was Raissa Feudjio, who smashed home from a goalmouth scramble after 72 minutes.

Cameroon were the better team as they created more chances in their search for the opening goal and deserved their victory over the Black Queens, who seemed content to soak the pressure for most of the contest.

On Saturday in front of their own fans in Yaounde, the Lionesses will hope to extend their winning streak at this tournament by securing their first triumph after losing their previous three finals.

Two years ago, they lost 2-0 to Nigeria in the final in Namibia.