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Two brilliant saves from Bobo Nwabali helped Nigeria beat South Africa 4-2 on penalties as the Super Eagles booked a place in the final of Afcon 2023. Nigeria will now meet Ivory Coast who beat DR Congo in the second semi finals.
Nigeria dominated territory early on but struggled to pick holes in South Africa’s well-organised rearguard. South Africa, meanwhile, targeted the space in behind the Nigeria defence, and that clarity of purpose helped them look the more dangerous side.
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The first half ended goalless, and Nigeria picked it up thereafter, eventually forging in front when captain William Troost-Ekong scored from the penalty spot.
Meanwhile, Sebastien Haller scored the only goal of the second semi final against DR Congo to earn Ivory Coast a place in the final.
Haller broke the deadlock in the 65th minute by firing the ball into the ground before looping over the head of DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpas-Nzau and into the net. Max-Alain Gradel provided the assist.
It is the first time since 2015 that Ivory Coast has reached the final of AFCON. They won the tournament in that year.
