In a gripping semi-final encounter, Nigeria advanced to their eighth Africa Cup of Nations final after a tense penalty shootout victory over South Africa.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerged as the hero for Nigeria, saving penalties from Teboho Mokoena and Evidence Makgopa to secure a 4-2 win in the shootout.
The match was filled with drama, with VAR playing a significant role. Nigeria initially thought they had secured their spot in the final with a late goal from Victor Osimhen, adding to William Troost-Ekong’s earlier penalty. However, VAR intervened, overturning the goal due to a foul on South Africa’s Percy Tau at the beginning of the move. Mokoena converted the subsequent penalty to level the score.
South Africa’s challenges continued as defender Grant Kekana was sent off in extra time, but Nwabali’s heroics ensured Nigeria’s victory.
Osimhen’s fitness was a concern heading into the match, and although he was able to continue after an early injury scare, the game remained tight in the opening stages. South Africa had their moments, including penalty appeals waved away and missed opportunities by Tau.
Troost-Ekong broke the deadlock for Nigeria with a well-taken penalty, but South Africa fought back, ultimately forcing the game into a penalty shootout after Mokoena’s equalizer.
Nigeria showed resilience in the shootout, with Nwabali’s crucial saves paving the way for their victory. Kelechi Iheanacho sealed the win with a confident penalty, sending Nigeria through to yet another Africa Cup of Nations final.