Following a close semifinal match that lasted the whole distance against South Africa, Nigeria advanced to the Africa Cup of Nations final on Wednesday.
On Wednesday night, Nigeria advanced to the finals when Victor Osimhen's thrilling winner was nullified by VAR, who instead gave South Africa a penalty. Kelechi Iheanacho then maintained his composure to send the Super Eagles to the Nigeria AFCON final immediately. Africa 2023 South Africa vs Nigeria Nigeria Africa The semifinal match versus South Africa was intense and required extra time.
Nigeria's Troost-Ekong penalty gave them the lead, while Mokoena's spot-kick gave South Africa an equalizer. Iheanacho scores a crucial penalty, while Nwabali shines in goal. Victor Osimhen made a serious threat to skip Wednesday's crucial encounter, and Nigerian supporters were horrified to see him clutching his stomach so early in the game.
However, the talisman for Napoli decided he was well enough to go on and impressed in the second half. The African Player of the Year made many head-touch saves before confusing the Bafana Bafana defenders with his feet. Specifically, Osimhen was clattered by Mothobi Mvala, who was unable to keep up with his pace, which resulted in a clear penalty.
Captain William Troost-Ekong stepped up, much like he did against Ivory Coast, and slid his spot kick beneath the diving Ronwen Williams. Osimhen believed a late tap-in would cap off his excellent display, but a VAR check created unbelievable drama in Buake.
After a careless challenge by replacement Alhassan Yusuf, South Africa was given a penalty kick, negating the strike of the Napoli star. Teboho Mokoena duly despatched and set up some nerve-wracking last moments for Nigeria, who managed to hold on before the full duration of extra time. After yet another VAR check, Grant Kekana was sent off late for South Africa; penalties were eventually required to separate the two teams. Stanley Nwabali was outstanding in goal to take the Super Eagles through, while Kelechi Iheanacho was the hero.
