In a thrilling quarterfinal clash at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Nigeria secured their spot in the semifinals with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over a resilient Angola. Ademola Lookman emerged as the hero for the Super Eagles, netting a decisive goal and extending Nigeria’s impressive quarterfinal record.
The Black Sable Antelopes, who reached the last eight for the first time since 2010, posed an early threat with Mabululu testing Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabili. However, the Super Eagles gradually found their rhythm, with Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon spearheading the attacking efforts.
It was Lookman who eventually broke the deadlock, capitalizing on a swift counter-attack orchestrated by Simon. The Atalanta BC forward showcased clinical finishing, burying the ball into the net with a precise first-time strike, leaving Angola’s goalkeeper Antonio Dominique with no chance.
In the second half, Nigeria continued to assert dominance, creating opportunities for Alex Iwobi and Zaidu Sanusi. Despite Angola’s efforts to mount a comeback, including Zini’s rattling shot against the post, Nigeria held firm. Calvin Bassey and Osimhen had chances to widen the lead, but VAR denied Osimhen’s headed goal due to a marginal offside.
The Super Eagles successfully navigated past a resilient Angolan side, whose dreams of a historic semifinal appearance were dashed. Nigeria’s journey in AFCON now sets them up for a semifinal showdown against the winners of the Cape Verde vs. South Africa clash on February 7th in Bouaké.
As Nigeria aims for their fourth AFCON title, the team’s resilience and Lookman’s clinical finish provide optimism for their supporters as they advance to the penultimate stage of the tournament. The anticipation builds as the Super Eagles eye glory in the heart of African football.
