By ABIRHIRE THOMAS reporting from Abidjan
The Super Eagles of Nigeria have made it to the last stage of the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 as they flew into the final of the matches after defeating the Bafana Bafana of South Africa 4-2, in Cote D’Ivoire, on Wednesday February 7, 2024.
The Super Eagles had to wait until the mandatory penalty shootout after the full and extra time ended one apiece.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerged the hero of the match after saving two of the South African’s penalty kicks.
Kelechi Iheanacho scored the last penalty.
Ola Aina was the only Nigerian who missed his kick.
The Wednesday match, at Stade Bouaké in Bouaké, Cote d’Ivoire, saw both sides give good account of themselves.
The first goal of the match was scored by Super Eagles On-Field Captain, William Troost-Ekong, from the penalty spot.
This followed a foul on Nigeria’s top striker and African Footballer of the Year 2023, Victor Osimhen, in the 18 yard box.
South Africa equally converted its penalty kick after a player was fouled in the 18 yard box of the Super Eagles.
