The Super Eagles of Nigeria defeated the Bafana Bafana of South Africa 4-2 on penalties to qualify for the African Cup of Nations finals.
The Super Eagles secured a penalty after African Player of the Year Victor Osimhen was brought down in the box by Mothobi Mvala of South Africa at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake, Ivory Coast.
Nigeria led 1-0 in the 67th minute when Captain William Troost-Ekong converted a low-driven penalty into the middle of the net fooling Ronwen Williams in goal.
Nigeria thought they had sealed the game with a 2-0 lead when Osimhen scored as he latched on to a pass inside the penalty box and fired a perfect low strike, which went inside the left post. However, a VAR review verdict said that there was no goal for Nigeria due to a foul in the build-up play. The decision was overturned, and a penalty was given to South Africa.
Bafana Bafana reacted with a 1-1 goal from the spot when Teboho Mokoena of South Africa played the penalty past Stanley Nwabili into the bottom left corner.
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South Africa had the clearest chance to seal the game after Evidence Makgopa had his shot flashed high over the bar after beating the defender, following a rebound after a freekick saved by Nwabali.
The game, which entered extra time, saw big chances from both teams.
Moffi was brought down at the edge of the box. South Africa was shown a red card following the tackle.
Nigeria sealed the game 4-2 in penalties after Nwabali saved two penalties.
Nigeria’s performance in the AFCON has brought the Super Eagles to the final as they strive to secure another AFCON trophy.
(Editor : Ena Agbanoma)
