Former Super Falcons striker Desire Oparanozie has expressed strong confidence in Nigeria’s chances of winning a record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title—provided they can overcome arch-rivals and current champions South Africa in their semi-final showdown on Tuesday.
Oparanozie, who had a notable career with the national team, singled out Banyana Banyana as the Falcons’ toughest challenge in the tournament. However, she remains optimistic that beating the South Africans would virtually guarantee Nigeria the trophy.
“Nigeria’s biggest threat is Banyana Banyana, who are the defending champions,” she said during an interview with Showmax Premier League on Monday, July 21. “Once Nigeria can get past them, the WAFCON is as good as won by the Super Falcons.”
Her remarks followed Nigeria’s dominant 5-0 victory over Zambia in the quarter-finals—a performance she described with pride and enthusiasm. “I was super excited and proud. It was a stellar performance from the team,” Oparanozie added.