Yay! The Super Eagles have left Nigerians screaming for victory! The ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament witnessed another chapter in the historic rivalry between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and South Africa’s Bafana Bafana. In a tense semi-final clash on Wednesday, what seemed like a tumultuous and directionless match between Nigeria and South Africa turned in favour of Nigeria, booking their place in the tournament’s final.
The encounter at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake lived up to its billing. The adrenaline was massive, especially with the numerous bants that have been ongoing for days on Twitter (now X). The match was a display of skillful attacks and resolute defensive stands from both sides.
The match started with South Africa trying to score a goal, but Stanley Nwabali intercepted with a save.
![AFCON 2024: Super Eagles Are Heading For The Finals | Fab.ng](https://www.cafonline.com/media/yk0gxp22/victor-osimhen-of-nigeria-celebrates-goal-which-is-disallowed-after-var-decision-during-the-2023-africa-cup-of-nations-quarterfinal-match-between-nigeria-and-angola-at-the-felix-houphouet-boigny-stadium-in-abidjan.jpg)
After what seemed like a slow and unproductive first half, hope dawned in the second half in favour of the Super Eagles. Troost Ekong of Nigeria scored a penalty goal after Mothobi Mvala of South Africa took down his opponent with a dangerous tackle, giving Nigeria a penalty kick. In the 85th minute, Victor Osimhen fired the ball mercilessly into the net, putting Nigeria at a 2-o, but the joy was shortlived. A VAR review was conducted to check whether or not there was an infringement in the move that resulted in the goal.
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The Super Eagles thought they were cruising after goals from William Troost-Ekong and Victor Osimhen, but a dramatic VAR check awarded South Africa a penalty, making it 1-1. Even after extra time, the score remained tied, leaving goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to be the hero. He saved two penalties to secure a 4-2 shootout win and send Nigeria flying! This means they’ll be aiming for their fourth title in the final. It was a wild game, with red cards and VAR drama, but in the end, Nigeria’s penalty power proved too strong!
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While Bafana Bafana displayed commendable resilience under pressure, the Super Eagles capitalized on key moments to secure their win. And now, Nigeria is heading to the #AFCON finals! It will be the first AFCON final for the Super Eagles since 2013 when they won the cup.
The big question is: who will they face? Côte d’Ivoire or DR Congo?
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