In a dramatic showdown in Bouake, Nigeria clinched a spot in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final by defeating South Africa 4-2 on penalties, with Kelechi Iheanacho sealing the victory with the decisive penalty kick. The match ended in a 1-1 draw after regular time, marked by a contentious decision where a potential Victor Osimhen goal for Nigeria was disallowed, leading to a penalty awarded to South Africa, which Teboho Mokoena successfully converted in the 90th minute. Despite a tense period of extra time and a late red card for Bafana Bafana defender Grant Kekana, South Africa faltered in the shootout, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali saving two spot-kicks, propelling the Super Eagles to the final showdown. Nigeria now awaits the winner between hosts Ivory Coast and the Democratic Republic of Congo for Sunday’s championship match.
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