Nigeria secured their spot in the Africa Cup of Nations final following a thrilling penalty shoot-out victory over South Africa on Wednesday. The match took a dramatic turn as Nigeria initially led 1-0 and appeared to score a second goal before VAR intervened, awarding South Africa a penalty. Teboho Mokoena converted the penalty to equalize, sending the game into extra time. Despite the setback, Nigeria ultimately triumphed in the penalty shootout, winning 4-2 with two crucial saves from Bobo Nwabali. They will now face Ivory Coast in the final.

In the early stages, Nigeria controlled possession but struggled to break through South Africa’s well-organized defense. Meanwhile, South Africa targeted gaps behind the Nigerian defense, making them the more threatening team. Although the first half ended goalless, Nigeria gained momentum afterward, taking the lead when captain William Troost-Ekong converted a penalty. However, VAR nullified Victor Osimhen’s apparent goal, ruling that Alhassan Yusuf fouled Percy Tau in the build-up. Mokoena then equalized for South Africa with another penalty.

Despite both teams pushing for a decisive goal in extra time, none materialized. Nigeria’s Ola Aina missed a penalty, but South Africa failed to capitalize, with Mokoena, Evidence Makgopa, and Mothobi Mvala all missing their penalties, sending Nigeria to the final.

Victor Osimhen, considered the best striker and player in Africa, has struggled to shine in the tournament despite his talent. Nigeria’s reliance on individual brilliance rather than a cohesive attacking strategy has hindered their goal-scoring efforts. However, there were signs of improvement in the second half of the semi-final, with Nigeria intensifying their play. Focusing on developing a consistent attacking plan around Osimhen could enhance Nigeria’s chances of success in the final, as goals have been hard to come by despite their offensive talent.