AFCON 2023: Lookman sends Nigeria to semi-finals with screamer against Angola

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals in a 1-0 showdown at Felix Houphouet-Boigny stadium.

Nigeria had entered the intense encounter with pressure, giving major upsets by the Black Antelopes of Angola, including knocking out Namibia in the round of 16.

However, the Super Eagles quickly settled in, taking the lead with a precise finish by Ademola Lookman just before half-time.

Moses Simon from the left, delivered a low pass to the Atalanta star, who scored in style, sending Angola’s goalkeeper the other away.

The strike marked his third goal of the tournament, with all coming in the knockout stages.

He is now the fourth Nigerian in history to score up to three goals in the knockout stages of the AFCON.

While Lookman worn the match for the Super Eagles, it was Osimhen who put the most impression in Jose Peseiro’s attacking front.

His pressure on Angola’s defense paid off in the second half, after he headed home a cross, but he moved a bit early, and the goal was ruled out for offside.

Simon also had a rollercoaster from the flank, and even made a standing ovation move when he dribbled his way through two Angola players.

Troost-Ekong, Celvin Bassey, Ola Aina and Semi Ajayi were also solid in the defense line, keeping off major threats from their opponents.

Nwabali who returned from injury was also spectacular, and seemed very cheerful on the pitch.

The Super Eagles will now face winners in the match between Cape Verde and South Africa on February 7.