Sebastian Haller emerged as the protagonist as Ivory Coast rallied from behind to defeat Nigeria 2-1 and secure their third Africa Cup of Nations title. The home crowd in Abidjan rejoiced as Haller orchestrated a remarkable comeback, volleying in the decisive goal nine minutes before the end, following Franck Kessie’s equalizer which nullified William Troost-Ekong’s first-half header.

Ivory Coast initiated the game brightly and fashioned better opportunities in the first half, with Max Gradel and Simon Adingra coming close. Nonetheless, Nigeria seized the lead seven minutes before halftime when Troost-Ekong capitalized on his third goal of the tournament.

Despite Nigeria’s unbeaten streak of 22 matches in the competition after scoring first, the hosts retaliated just after the hour mark when Kessie converted Adingra’s corner. Adingra played a pivotal role again as Ivory Coast secured a dramatic victory in the 81st minute, with Haller connecting to his cross to score past Stanley Nwabali at the near post.

It has been an extraordinary journey for Ivory Coast, particularly for Sebastian Haller. Previously, no team had finished third in their Africa Cup of Nations group and later lifted the trophy. The Elephants seemed to be on the brink of elimination during the group stages, prompting the replacement of head coach Jean-Louis Gasset by his assistant, Emerse Fae.

After narrowly advancing from Group A as the fourth-best third-placed team, Ivory Coast overcame reigning champions Senegal on penalties and required extra time to defeat Mali. Subsequently, they defeated Congo DR 1-0 in the semi-final and staged an incredible comeback in the final – a testament to their victories in 1992 and 2015.

Haller’s journey is equally remarkable, having battled and overcome testicular cancer in July 2022. His triumphant moment of scoring the crucial goal propels Ivory Coast to become the first host nation to lift the trophy since Egypt in 2006.