Nigeria defied plucky South Africa 4-3 on penalties to defend their Africa Women's Cup of Nations title on Saturday at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Both played out a thrilling 0-0 draw after extra-time with some scoring chances created by the two teams but struggling to find the back of the net.

The Super Falcons recovered from the first miss to convert the remaining four while Banyana Banyana went on to miss two spot kicks to give Nigeria a record-extending 11th African title.

Reigning African Footballer of the Year Assisat Oshoala missed a second-half penalty by miscuing her kick which was shocking.

Striker Chrestinah Kgatlana made a promising with a solo run and dribbled past Osinachi Ohale but she shot feebly into the goalie's hands.

Banyana Banyana also came close to scoring but goalkeeper Oluehi parried Mamelo Makhabane's free-kick out.