Nigeria to miss Women's World Cup after South Africa and Ghana win play-offs

What the report says

Nigeria have been eliminated from contention for the next Fifa Women’s World Cup after losing 2-1 to South Africa in a play-off at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Casablanca, according to Nile Post. The result means the Super Falcons, who were chasing a route through the African qualification pathway, will miss the tournament for the first time. South Africa, the 2022 Wafcon champions, advance to the inter-confederation qualifying stage.

The match was settled by second-half goals from Thembi Kgatlana and Refiloe Jane for Banyana Banyana. Nigeria replied late through Christy Ucheibe from the penalty spot in stoppage time, after a video review led to a handball call against Jane. South Africa goalkeeper Kaylin Swart then made a crucial late save to preserve the win. The report said Nigeria had opportunities of their own, including chances for Asisat Oshoala and Michelle Alozie, but could not finish them.

Nile Post also noted that Ghana joined South Africa in the next qualifying round after coming from behind to beat Ivory Coast 2-1 in Casablanca. Ghana recovered from an early penalty concession, with goals from Princess Marfo and Josephine Bonsu turning the match around. The Black Queens’ victory came amid a reported dispute over bonuses and allowances, adding off-field pressure to their campaign.

Nigeria’s exit is significant because the team had qualified for every Women’s World Cup since the inaugural edition in 1991 and is one of Africa’s most successful sides, with a record 10 Wafcon titles.