Nigeria Advances to AFCON Final After Dramatic VAR Interventions

In a thrilling semi-final clash at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeria secured a spot in the final after a series of dramatic VAR interventions against South Africa.

Nigeria 1-1 South Africa: Match Report

The match, held at the Stade de la Paix, witnessed Nigeria taking an early lead with a contentious penalty converted by William Troost-Ekong. Despite South Africa’s resilient performance throughout the tournament, they found themselves trailing after an unexpected run to the semi-finals.

The tide seemed to turn definitively in Nigeria’s favour when Victor Osimhen netted what appeared to be the clinching goal in the 85th minute.

However, jubilation turned to disbelief as VAR intervened, revealing a foul by Alhassan Yusuf on South Africa’s Percy Tau in the build-up to the goal. Referee Amin Omar promptly annulled the goal and awarded a penalty to South Africa, duly converted by Teboho Mokoena.

As if scripted for maximum drama, South Africa had a chance to snatch victory in stoppage time, only for Khuliso Mudau to squander a golden opportunity.

Extra time brought further tension, with Nigeria awarded a free kick just outside the box after a reckless challenge by Hlompho Kekana, resulting in a red card. However, Nigeria failed to capitalize on the advantage, leading to a tense penalty shootout.

The Penalty Shootout – Winner to Play Ivory Coast

Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, emerged as the hero, saving two crucial penalties as Nigeria triumphed 4-2 in the shootout.

Kelechi Iheanacho of Leicester City sealed the win with a confident spot-kick, sending Nigeria to their first AFCON final since their 2013 victory. They will now await the outcome of the other semi-final between DR Congo and hosts Ivory Coast.

The 2024 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final between Nigeria and South Africa will be remembered for its VAR controversies and dramatic twists, ultimately culminating in Nigeria’s hard-fought victory and advancement to the final.