
Credit: NFF
President Bola Tinubu has expressed his admiration for the Super Eagles following their triumph over South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in the semifinal match held in Bouake, Cote dโIvoire yesterday evening.
Tinubu commended the team, stating, โFrom the Southernmost tip of Africa to the plains of Mauritania and the shores of West Africaโฆ you have represented Nigeria with pride. Soar high in the AFCON Final.โ
In a significant achievement, Nigeria’s Super Eagles have secured a spot in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final for the first time since 2013. This feat was accomplished by defeating South Africa 4-2 in a penalty shootout at Bouake’s Peace Stadium on Wednesday.
The match remained deadlock until the 67th minute when Nigeria’s captain, William Troost-Ekong, capitalized on a penalty opportunity after Victor Osimhen was fouled inside the penalty area.
Despite maintaining the lead until the 90th minute, Nigeria conceded a penalty when Alhassan Yusuf fouled Percy Tau inside the box. Initially disregarded by the referee, the decision was overturned by VAR, resulting in a penalty for South Africa, which Teboho Mokoena converted calmly.
With no further goals scored during extra time, the match proceeded to a penalty shootout.
Nigeria emerged victorious, thanks to goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali’s heroic saves, denying two penalty attempts by South Africa.
Super Eagles will now play Cote dโIvoire in the final after the Ivorians defeated Democratic Republic of Congo 1-0.
Whatโs your impression of the match?