AFCON 2023: Nigeria's Super Eagles Secure Semifinal Berth with 1-0 Victory Over Angola
In the quarterfinal clash of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Ivory Coast, Nigeria's Super Eagles emerged triumphant with a narrow 1-0 win against Angola on Friday night. Ademola Lookman, the forward from Atalanta, made a decisive impact with a first-half goal, converting Moses Simon's cross just four minutes before the halftime whistle.
Despite Angola's spirited efforts to secure their first-ever AFCON semifinal spot, Nigeria took the lead in the 41st minute. Stanley Nwabali, the goalkeeper, thwarted Mabululu's close-range volley in the fourth minute, allowing Nigeria to capitalize on the offensive end. Simon skillfully evaded Kialonda Gaspar's sliding challenge, providing Lookman with an opportunity to strike the ball into the net, giving Nigeria the lead.
Angola, determined to respond, came close to equalizing just before the hour mark. Zine, a substitute, connected with Show's through ball, managing to beat Nwabali, but his first-time shot rebounded off the post, leaving Nigeria in the lead.
Despite Victor Osimhen's effort being disallowed by VAR, as his header from Lookman's free-kick was deemed offside, Nigeria's Eagles successfully defended their lead, securing their place in the AFCON 2023 semifinals.