- Nigeria beat South Africa via Penalty shoot-outs
- Ivory Coast beat DR Congo 1-0 In Normal Time
The 2023 African Cup of Nations has reached its pinnacle, with Nigeria and Ivory Coast set to clash in a highly anticipated final on Sunday.
This marks Nigeria’s first AFCON final appearance since 2013, adding an extra layer of excitement to the showdown.
Nigeria booked their spot in the final after winning a thrilling showdown against South Africa.
The match ended in a 1-1 draw after regular time, leading to a dramatic penalty shoot-out that saw Nigeria emerge victorious 4-2.
Substitute Kelechi Iheanacho and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali were the heroes for Nigeria, during the penalty shoot-out, securing Nigeria’s spot in the final. Nwabali played a pivotal role for Nigeria, making two crucial saves in the shoot-out that ultimately propelled the Super Eagles to the final.
It was an intense encounter, filled with nail-biting moments that led to the 1-1 draw in regular time and the subsequent penalty drama.
3-time Champions, Nigeria have been impressive during this tournament. The Super Eagles have showcased their dominance throughout the tournament.
They were good in the group stages, but the likes of Osimhen, and Ademola Lookman have elevated their performances in the knockout rounds as Nigeria eased past Cameroon in the Round of 16, Angola in the Quarter Finals, and also beat an impressive South African side to get to the final since 2013, when they last won it.
From Best Losers To Finalists
Ivory Coast, the tournament hosts, also navigated their way to the final with a lot of determination. For a side that qualified for the knockout rounds as best losers in group A, they have surprised many by beating a strong DR Congo side 1-0, to book a spot in the final
Sebastien Haller’s 65-minute goal was enough to seal a historic win for the Ivorians.
Nigeria will be playing against a whole nation, while the Ivory Coast will want to make sure the Eagles do not get the better of them on their home soil twice in one tournament.
As the two African football powerhouses face off on February 11, The whole of Africa will be expecting what should be a fantastic spectacle.
