Iheanacho, Nwabali propel Nigeria to AFCON final in penalty thriller

In a pulsating Africa Cup of Nations semi-final clash, Nigeria emerged victorious against South Africa after a dramatic penalty shootout, securing a spot in the final against Ivory Coast.

The three-time champions showcased resilience and determination, prevailing 4-2 on penalties following a hard-fought 1-1 draw in regular time.

Nigeria’s coach, Jose Peseiro, lauded the team’s mental strength, emphasizing their unity and indomitable spirit. Peseiro highlighted the challenges faced during the match, acknowledging the controversial cancellation of a Nigerian goal and South Africa’s equalizer.

Despite the setbacks, Peseiro expressed immense satisfaction, stating, “The players deserve it, we deserve it, the Super Eagles deserve it, the Nigerian people deserve it.”

English second-tier club Leicester City’s forward, Kelechi Iheanacho, stole the spotlight as he played a crucial role, entering the fray after 102 minutes and confidently converting the decisive penalty. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, representing South African top-flight club Chippa United, played a pivotal role in the shootout, saving kicks from Teboho Mokoena and Evidence Makgopa.

The match had its share of drama, with Nigeria initially taking the lead through a penalty converted by captain William Troost-Ekong.

South Africa’s Khuliso Mudau missed a golden opportunity to secure victory just before extra time, blazing over from close range. The contest reached a turning point when Victor Osimhen’s apparent goal for Nigeria was overturned after a VAR check, leading to a penalty awarded to South Africa, which Mokoena duly converted.

As the final minutes unfolded, South Africa’s Grant Kekana received a red card, reducing them to 10 men. The win ignited celebrations in Nigeria, with fans expressing joy and anticipation for the upcoming final against Ivory Coast.

In the parallel semi-final, hosts Ivory Coast secured a narrow 1-0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo, with Sebastien Haller’s 65th-minute goal proving decisive. Haller, who missed the group stage due to injury, continued his comeback story, propelling Ivory Coast to the final after a challenging journey in the tournament.

The stage is set for an epic Africa Cup of Nations final between Nigeria and Ivory Coast, promising another thrilling chapter in the continent’s premier football competition.