Nigeria on Wednesday defeated South Africa in the first semi-final of the African Cup of Nations, AFCON 2023. The Super Eagles held their nerve to see out a stubborn Bafana Bafana side 4-2 on penalties.
Nigerian captain, Williams Troost-Ekong opened the scoring for the Super Eagles midway into the second half from the penalty spot after striker Victor Osimhen was brought down inside the box. South Africa then won and converted their own penalty in the dying minute of normal time after Osimhen’s goal was disallowed for an infringement.
Both teams held their cool in extra time, though Bafana Bafana defender Kekanka was sent off for a last man tackle on Terem Moffi. Kelechi Iheanacho scored the winning penalty for Nigeria after captain Mokoena missed the opening kick for Bafana.
Nigeria will now wait for the winner of the second semi-final match between hosts Ivory Coast and DR Congo. Stanley Nwabali was subsequently awarded Man of Match after another commanding display in-between the sticks for Nigeria.
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