Nigeria narrowly overcame South Africa in a thrilling penalty shootout after a dramatic encounter in the semi-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. The match ended 1-1 after extra time, with Nigeria eventually prevailing 4-2 on penalties at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake.
The Super Eagles broke the deadlock in the 67th minute when William Troost-Ekong converted a penalty past South Africa’s goalkeeper Ronwen Williams. However, Nigeria’s joy was short-lived as Victor Osimhen’s late goal was disallowed by VAR, leading to South Africa being awarded a penalty in stoppage time. Teboho Mokoena successfully converted the spot-kick to equalize for Bafana Bafana.
The game remained deadlocked after extra time, with both teams unable to find a winner. In the penalty shootout, Nigeria emerged victorious, with only Ola Aina failing to convert his spot-kick. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made crucial saves for Nigeria, denying Mokoena and Evidence Makgopa, while Kelechi Iheanacho scored the winning penalty to secure Nigeria’s place in the final.
Despite the tense encounter, the match will be remembered for its dramatic twists and turns, adding another chapter to the memorable moments of the Ivory Coast edition of the tournament.
