Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ifeanyi Ibeh
Published on 2024-02-02 19:15:59
Ademola Lookman’s goal in the first half secured Nigeria’s spot in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-finals with a 1-0 victory over Angola. This result adds to the Super Eagles’ remarkable AFCON quarter-final record, as they have only lost one of their previous 11 last-eight ties in the competition.
Angola’s Black Sable Antelopes had surprised many by reaching the last-eight of the AFCON for the first time since 2010. In the opening exchanges of the match, they gave the Super Eagles a scare when Gilberto flicked on Fredy’s corner into the path of Mabululu, who was brilliantly denied by Stanley Nwabali. There was doubt as to whether Mabululu’s strike would have stood, as TV replays showed that he was in an offside position. This wake-up call spurred the Nigerians into action, and they began to assert themselves in the contest.
Victor Osimhen had a couple of opportunities to score, heading over from Frank Onyeka’s delivery and then firing a header straight into goalkeeper Antonio Dominique’s hands from a Moses Simon cross. However, it was Lookman who ultimately broke the deadlock for the Super Eagles, with a clinical first-time left-footed finish at the end of a devastating break initiated by Simon, who easily bypassed Kialonda Gaspar.
In the second half, the Super Eagles aimed to further solidify their lead, but it was Angola who came close to leveling the tie when substitute Zini struck the Nigerian post with a close-range shot. Osimhen appeared to have finally scored from Lookman’s free-kick, only for VAR to disallow the effort due to a marginal offside call.
Despite this, the Super Eagles did enough to overcome a resilient Angolan side, which will exit AFCON with their heads held high after falling short in their quest to secure a first-ever semi-final appearance. The Super Eagles will now await the winners of Saturday’s match-up between Cape Verde and South Africa in Bouaké for their semi-final clash.
Ademola Lookman’s crucial goal not only secured Nigeria’s spot in the AFCON semi-finals, but it also showcased the team’s resilience and determination to overcome a strong Angolan side. The Super Eagles will look to sustain this momentum and continue their quest to capture a fourth AFCON title.
