Nigeria reached the final of the Africa Cup of Nations

Nigeria advanced to the Africa Cup of Nations final on Wednesday following a tense semi-final clash against South Africa that went into extra time. Victor Osimhen, facing doubts about his availability for the crucial fixture, initially worried Nigeria fans when he appeared to be in discomfort shortly after the match began. However, the Napoli star deemed himself fit to continue and made a significant impact in the second half. Despite facing numerous challenges in the air, the African Player of the Year showcased his agility to trouble the Bafana Bafana defense.




Notably, Mothobi Mvala failed to cope with Osimhen's pace and fouled the striker, resulting in a clear penalty. Following a successful penalty conversion by captain William Troost-Ekong, reminiscent of his performance against Ivory Coast, Osimhen thought he had sealed a stellar display with a late tap-in. However, VAR intervention led to dramatic scenes in Bouake as Osimhen's goal was disallowed, and South Africa was awarded a penalty after a reckless challenge by substitute Alhassan Yusuf. Teboho Mokoena converted the penalty, setting up a tense finish for Nigeria, who managed to hold on through an intense period of extra time. South Africa's Grant Kekana was later sent off following another VAR review, ultimately resulting in a penalty shootout to determine the winner. Kelechi Iheanacho emerged as the hero, with Stanley Nwabali shining in goal to propel the Super Eagles to victory.



From almost missing the match to playing a pivotal role in Nigeria's advancement to the final, Osimhen was instrumental in Wednesday's victory. Overcoming both an injury scare and a rather lackluster first half, the Napoli player came alive in the second period. His relentless energy and determination proved too much for the South African defense to handle, and he made a decisive impact with just one moment of brilliance. While Osimhen hasn't been in peak form throughout the tournament, he certainly rose to the occasion when it mattered most. Nevertheless, Nigeria owes much of their success in reaching the AFCON final to goalkeeper Nwabali, who emerged as the hero during the shootout.