In a thrilling match, the Super Eagles of Nigeria emerged victorious over South Africa’s Bafana Bafana, clinching a spot in the African Cup of Nations finals with a 4-2 penalty shootout win.
The intense showdown unfolded at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake, Ivory Coast, where the momentum swung back and forth. Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen was fouled in the box by Mothobi Mvala, earning Nigeria a crucial penalty.
Captain William Troost-Ekong stepped up, confidently converting the penalty with a precise shot past goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, giving Nigeria a 1-0 lead in the 67th minute.
Nigeria appeared to double their lead when Osimhen netted another goal, but VAR intervened, ruling out the goal due to a foul in the build-up. Instead, South Africa was awarded a penalty, which Teboho Mokoena successfully converted, leveling the score at 1-1.
As the game progressed into extra time, both teams had scoring opportunities, with South Africa even seeing a player sent off after a contentious tackle.
Ultimately, Nigeria emerged victorious in the penalty shootout, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabili making two crucial saves to secure a 4-3 win.
The Super Eagles’ impressive performance in the AFCON has propelled them to the final, where they aim to add another trophy to their collection.
