Nigeria’s thrilling victory over South Africa in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-final on Wednesday culminated in a tense penalty shootout, with substitute Kelechi Iheanacho sealing a 4-2 win for the Super Eagles.
The match, which ended 1-1 after extra time, showcased the resilience and determination of both teams. Captain William Troost-Ekong opened the scoring for Nigeria with a penalty in the 67th minute, only for South Africa’s Teboho Mokoena to level the score with a spot-kick in the 90th minute.
The game’s turning point came when Nigeria thought they had secured a late winner through Victor Osimhen, only for VAR to intervene and award South Africa a penalty for a foul on Percy Tau. Mokoena remained composed and converted the penalty to force the match into extra time.
Despite South Africa’s late surge, Nigeria maintained their composure, regrouping impressively and creating chances. However, it was a moment of controversy that led to South Africa’s Mothobi Mvala being sent off for a foul just outside the box, following VAR intervention.
With the match deadlocked after extra time, the outcome was decided by a penalty shootout. Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerged as the hero, making crucial saves, while Kelechi Iheanacho calmly converted his spot-kick to secure Nigeria’s place in the final.
The victory sets up a tantalizing final showdown for Nigeria against either Ivory Coast or the Democratic Republic of Congo. With their resilient performance against South Africa, the Super Eagles have once again demonstrated their prowess on the continental stage and will be eager to claim their fourth Africa Cup of Nations title.
