Nigeria Triumphs Over South Africa in Dramatic AFCON Semifinal Penalty Shootout

Historic Victory for the Super Eagles

Nigeria secured their place in the Africa Cup of Nations final with a thrilling 4-2 penalty shootout victory over South Africa, following an intense match that ended 1-1 after extra time. The victory was largely thanks to goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who made two crucial saves during the shootout.

Match Drama and VAR Controversy

The match was filled with dramatic moments, particularly when William Troost-Ekong put Nigeria ahead from the penalty spot in the second half. A significant turning point came when Victor Osimhen thought he had scored Nigeria’s second goal, but VAR intervention led to the goal being disallowed and instead awarded a penalty to South Africa at the other end after Percy Tau was found to have been fouled in the area.

South Africa had their chances to win the match in regular time, with their most notable opportunity coming in the final moments when Khuliso Mudau missed a clear opportunity, firing over the bar.

Historical Significance

This victory marks Nigeria’s first AFCON final appearance since 2013, when they last won the trophy. The hero of the match, goalkeeper Nwabali, who plays his club football in South Africa for Chippa United, has been a revelation throughout the tournament, conceding only two goals in six matches.

Road to the Final

After overcoming their semifinal hurdle, having previously lost five of their last six semifinals in the competition, Nigeria will face hosts Ivory Coast in Sunday’s final. The match-up carries additional historical weight, as Nigeria has traditionally dominated their encounters with South Africa in the Africa Cup of Nations, having won their previous three meetings by an aggregate score of 8-1.

The match was further intensified when South Africa’s Grant Kekana received a red card during extra time, putting his team under increased pressure before the eventual penalty shootout.