Nigeria Triumphs Over South Africa in AFCON Semi-Final Penalty Shootout Drama

Historic Victory for the Super Eagles

Three-time champions Nigeria advanced to the Africa Cup of Nations final after goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali’s heroic performance, saving two penalties in the shootout to secure a 4-2 victory over South Africa following a 1-1 draw.

Match Highlights

The regular-time scoring opened when captain William Troost-Ekong converted a penalty in the 67th minute for Nigeria. The drama intensified when Teboho Mokoena equalized from the penalty spot in the 90th minute. This equalizing opportunity came after a dramatic sequence where Nigeria thought they had scored a second goal through Victor Osimhen, but VAR intervention led to a penalty for South Africa instead.

Nwabali, who plays his club football in South Africa for Chippa United, proved to be a revelation throughout the tournament, having conceded only two goals in six games. His performance helped secure Nigeria’s first final appearance since their Cup of Nations trophy victory in 2013.

Historical Context and Future Prospects

This victory marks Nigeria’s seventh win in 16 continental semifinals, breaking what had become something of a curse for the side, as they had previously advanced from only one of their last six semifinal appearances. The Super Eagles will now face hosts Ivory Coast in Sunday’s final, following the latter’s 1-0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo.

South Africa, despite their valiant effort, will now compete in the bronze-medal match on Saturday. They had their chances, including a crucial missed opportunity in the dying seconds when right back Khuliso Mudau fired over the bar with an open goal.