Nigeria reached the semi-finals of the CAN by eliminating South Africa in the semi-final (1-1 aptb 3-2).
Eleven years later, Nigeria is once again in the final of the African Cup. The Super Eagles advanced to the final match of the event by defeating South Africa. A success acquired at the end of the penalty shootout.
Nigeria at the end of suspense
The Nigerians thought they would save themselves the half hour of added time by scoring the 2-0 goal in the 82nde via Victor Osimhen. But this achievement was refused shortly after. The referee went to consult the VAR to see if there was a penalty in the opposite area on the previous action. And that was indeed the case. Mokoena having transformed the award, South Africa managed to come back at the last minute to 1-1.
Mokoena was then less skillful in this exercise during the penalty shootout. He was among the two South Africans to miss, while Nigeria only had one miss. Williams, the Bafana Bafana goalkeeper, did not achieve a miracle this time.
Nigeria can breathe. With a few cold sweats, she managed to reach the final. For South Africa, however, the outcome is sad. Broos’ men sold their hides dearly. They also had a sense of sacrifice, like Kekana, who took a red on purpose at the 115e to prevent Moffi from sealing the debates in overtime.
Nigeria is therefore only 90 or 120 minutes away from its fourth continental title. In the final, José Peseiro’s men will challenge the winner of the duel between Ivory Coast and DR Congo.
