Nigeria Secures Spot in Afcon 2023 Final, Defeating South Africa on Penalties

The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations has seen some thrilling matches, and the semi-final clash between Nigeria and South Africa was no different. The match concluded in a 1-1 draw, forcing a penalty shootout that ended 4-2 in Nigeria's favor.

During the thrilling encounter, William Troost-Ekong opened the score for the Super Eagles through a penalty midway into the second half. Nigeria was on the brink of victory with a disallowed second goal from Victor Osimhen due to a VAR review, which instead awarded a penalty to South Africa. Teboho Mokoena executed this penalty perfectly, tying the match and pushing it into extra time.

In the extra time, a tense sequence of events took place. South African defender, Grant Kekana received dismissal, and Mokoena faced a penalty miss. Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali demonstrated strong performance by saving two penalty attempts from South African players.

The winning penalty for Nigeria was successfully netted by Kelechi Iheanacho, confirming their advancement to the final. They will compete against Ivory Coast, who triumphed over DR Congo. Nigeria's Super Eagles, led by captain Troost-Ekong, will be aiming for their fourth continental win, their first since 2013.