The Super Eagles have once again proved why they are one of the most revered teams on the African continent.
In what has become the most talked about game in the ongoing 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeria defeated South Africa 2-1 in an engrossing encounter in front of a largely pro-Nigerian audience at the 75,000 capacity Cairo International Stadium.
The odds were not exactly in the favor of the Nigerian team as the game progressed. At about 20 minutes into the game, the South Africans had two times as much ball possession as Nigeria and things were not looking too good for our boys out there.
However, all that changed when Villarreal forward, Samuel Chukwueze, gave Nigeria a much needed lead in the 27th minute of the game.
At this point, the Bafana Bafana intensified their game play in a bid to teach Nigeria a good lesson in the art of composition even in the sight of grave danger.
I give it to them, the Bafana Bafana are one of Africa’s most composed, free-flowing teams, however, the route they chose to take is one that the Nigerian team have treaded in times past.
South Africa got a lucky break in the 71st minute via Bongani Zungu’s coil header, leveling the game as both teams sought for a decisive goal.
It was clear the South Africans were out to make a point, after all, the game was more than just a match. It’s a continental rivalry that has been for years and will probably remain for many more.
However, they had their calculations all wrong. Nigeria is no pushover, and the Eagles never give up without a good fight.
With only one minute to full-time, William Troost-Ekong got Nigeria’s second goal as the game moved into 4 minutes extra time.
The long ball game!
South Africa began playing the long ball game, shooting straight into Nigeria’s half of the field without concern. They probably forgot just how perfect the Nigerian team is at defending its place in the last minutes.
The Eagles were the superior team at the final whistle, and have now booked a place in the AFCON semifinal where they will meet either Algeria or Ivory Coast to fight for a place in the final showdown.
Go, Super Eagles!
Nigeria is proud of you!
Featured Image Source: Twitter
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It seems like with each game,we keep getting better
We played really well yesterday
I strongly believe we will play in the finals