Nigeria’s Super Falcons are bracing themselves for a fierce challenge at the upcoming 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), as defending champions South Africa reveal a bold and youthful 23-player squad for the tournament in Morocco.

Banyana Banyana coach Dr. Desiree Ellis has made sweeping changes to her squad, signalling a generational shift with a refreshed roster that departs significantly from the team that won South Africa’s maiden WAFCON title in 2022 — a triumph that famously included a victory over Nigeria.

The major headline is the absence of star striker Thembi Kgatlana, who misses out due to injury. Also missing from the final selection are experienced names like goalkeeper Casey Gordon and forward Nthabiseng Majiya, both relegated to standby roles. In total, nine players from the title-winning squad have been dropped, underscoring Ellis’ commitment to evolution and depth-building.

South Africa are drawn in Group C and will begin their campaign against Ghana on 7 July, followed by matches against Tanzania (11 July) and Mali (14 July). Their ultimate goal remains a return to the final in Rabat on 26 July.

Meanwhile, the Super Falcons — nine-time champions and continental heavyweights — will view South Africa’s transformation with both curiosity and caution. Their recent 0-0 draw against Portugal in Lisbon suggests a team fine-tuning for continental glory, aiming for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.

However, Banyana Banyana’s recent form cannot be overlooked. They’re riding a six-match winning streak, including a 2-0 win over Zambia — a statement response following their COSAFA Cup final defeat in November 2024.

Having both reached the knockout stages of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, Nigeria and South Africa remain on a collision course. If they meet in Morocco, it promises to be another epic chapter in their fierce rivalry.