Nigeria are through to the semi final of the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations after recording a slim 1-0 win over Angola at the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium.
The Super Eagles started explosively having attacked their opponents right at the start but the final effort from Moses Simon was blocked hugely by Carneiro.
On the 3rd minute, Mabululu came so close to snatching the lead but his connection from Fredy's corner was saved hugely by Stanley Nwabali- signifying why Nigeria needed his service coming into the game.
After dominating the game from all angles in the opening 23 minutes, after Ola Aina's cross from the right was followed up with a towering header from Osimhen but went straight at the throat of Antonio Signori.
Nigeria finally snatched the lead on the 40th minute through Ademola Lookman who struck from Moses Simon cross. Just what they have been waiting for and it finished 1-0 after half time.
In the second half, both teams returned well and took the game at each other resulting into even exchanges.
Eleven minutes into the second half, the Black Antelopes with a glorious opportunity after Show put Zini through with a good ball but his effort went off the post. So unlucky!
On the 75th minute, Victor Osimhen scored from Ademola's free kick to double their lead. The goal was subsequently ruled out after VAR check.
Another huge chance for the Greens as Ademola Lookman sets up Osimhen with another good pass, kept calm on the ball but his effort was blocked by Kialonda Gasper.
With just two minutes to full time, Zito Luvumbo came so close getting the equalizer but his curler was checked nicely by Gilberto.
It finished 1-0 for Nigeria after full time and have advanced to the semi final of the competition. They await the winner between DR Congo and Guinea.
By: Iddriss Abdul Rahim
