By Muhyideen Jimoh
The Super Eagles on Wednesday in Bouake qualified for the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), after defeating South Africa in a pulsating semi-final clash.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the match played at the Stade de la Paix, Bouake was decided on penalties after the game ended 1-1 after 120 minutes of tension soaked encounter.
The match started on a fast pace, with the South Africans dominating play but were pegged back by the resilient Nigerian defence, Marshalled by Captain William Troost-Ekong.
The cagey first half ended goalless in spite of the forays by both teams.
But in the second half Nigeria took the lead after Victor Osimhen was fouled inside the 18 yard box.
Ekong stepped up to put the Eagles one goal up.
However, late in the game substitute Alhassan Yusuf gave away a penalty which Teboho Mokoena converted.
The match was eventually decided on penalties with Nigeria winning 4-2 after a nervy shoot-out.
Substitute Kelechi Iheanacho scored the winning penalty as Nigeria booked their place in the final to spark wild celebration in the stadium.
Nigeria will now face Cote d’Ivoire in Sunday’s final after the host defeated DR Congo by a lone goal in the second semifinal encounter. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Joseph Edeh
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