Nigeria secures a spot in the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations after a thrilling showdown against South Africa, ending in a dramatic penalty shootout victory, with Kelechi Iheanacho sealing the deal with the winning penalty kick.
The intense match in Bouake concluded with a 1-1 draw after an eventful regulation time. A pivotal moment arose when a Victor Osimhen goal, which would have doubled Nigeria’s lead to 2-0, was disallowed by the referee after consulting the video monitor. Instead, a penalty was awarded to South Africa.
Teboho Mokoena stepped up and successfully converted the penalty in the 90th minute, pushing the game into extra time. However, despite the added period, neither team could find the net, prolonging the suspense.
In the penalty shootout, South Africa faced disappointment as midfielder Mokoena was one of two players whose spot-kicks were denied by goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. This enabled the Super Eagles to emerge victorious, securing their place in the final showdown.
Awaiting Nigeria in the final is hosts Ivory Coast, setting the stage for an electrifying clash on Sunday. With three championship titles under their belt, Nigeria remains a formidable contender, poised to deliver an exhilarating performance against their formidable opponents.
Source: BBC Online
