AFCON 2023: Nigeria edge Angola to storm semis

A first half strike by Ademola Lookman was all the Super Eagles need to edge Angola and qualify for the semifinals of  the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.

At the brink of half-time in Abijdan, Lookman, the Atalanta winger, seized the opportunity, converting Moses Simon's precise cross into a goal, securing Nigeria's place in the semi-finals. Nigeria claimed the lead in the 41st minute when Simon evaded Kialonda Gaspar's challenge, delivering a precise pass to Lookman, who skillfully buried the ball into the net.

Despite Angola's spirited efforts, particularly a close call by substitute Zine, whose shot ricocheted off the post just before the hour mark, the Super Eagles maintained their defensive resolve.

“I would like to congratulate the #Nigerian team. They have a very strong squad. It was a demanding game… Trying to mourn about this defeat is not a good attitude to have… Our strikers didn’t perform. #Nigeria were more efficient.” - @_PalancasNegras #Angola coach Pedro… pic.twitter.com/mHpqNhqspu

— Osasu Obayiuwana (@osasuo) February 2, 2024

Angola, in a bid to reach their first semi-final, demonstrated early promise, with Mabululu's close-range volley thwarted by a brilliant save from Stanley Nwabali in the fourth minute. However, it was Nigeria who capitalized on their chances, with Lookman's clinical finish putting them in the lead.

VAR disallowed Victor Osimhen's header off Lookman's free-kick due to an offside call. Despite this setback, Nigeria's defensive resilience ensured their progression to the semi-finals, much to the disappointment of Angola.

Nigeria will now meet the winner of the South Africa versus Cape Verde quarterfinal match that will be played on Saturday.