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 semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a 1-0 victory over Angola. This win adds to the Super Eagles’ impressive track record in AFCON quarter-finals, 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 making it to the last-eight of the AFCON for the first time since 2010, and they gave Nigeria a scare early on when Gilberto flicked on a corner into the path of Mabululu, who was denied by goalkeeper Stanley Nwabili. However, TV replays showed that Mabululu was in an offside position, casting doubt on whether the strike would have stood.
This moment seemed to awaken the Nigerians, as they began to establish themselves in the contest. Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon had chances, but it was Lookman who broke the deadlock with a clinical left-footed finish at the end of a swift counterattack. The Super Eagles sought to further control the game in the second half, creating chances to extend their lead. However, it was Angola who came closest to equalizing when substitute Zini hit the post with a close-range strike.
Osimhen thought he had scored from Lookman’s free-kick, but VAR disallowed the goal due to a marginal offside call. Despite this, the Super Eagles managed to overcome a resilient Angolan side, who will exit AFCON with their heads held high despite falling short of a first-ever semi-final appearance. Nigeria’s quest for a fourth AFCON title will continue in a semi-final clash against the winners of Saturday’s match between Cape Verde and South Africa in Bouaké.
The image above shows Super Eagles players celebrating with Ademola Lookman after he put Nigeria ahead against Angola. Lookman’s goal was the decisive moment in a hard-fought quarter-final match that ultimately secured Nigeria’s place in the semi-finals. The Super Eagles have been a dominant force in AFCON quarter-finals, and this win adds to their impressive track record in the tournament. Angola’s Black Sable Antelopes put up a strong fight, but ultimately fell short of continuing their historic run in the competition.
After Lookman’s goal, the Super Eagles looked to solidify their position in the game, creating opportunities to extend their lead. However, it was Angola who came closest to scoring in the second half, with substitute Zini hitting the post with a close-range effort. Despite the scare, the Super Eagles managed to hold on to secure the win and advance to the semi-finals.
The victory sets up a semi-final clash for the Super Eagles against the winners of the match between Cape Verde and South Africa. As Nigeria continues their quest for a fourth AFCON title, their performance in the quarter-final match against Angola demonstrates their determination and resilience in the competition.
