Nigeria, the favorites in the Africa Cup of Nations, clinched a spot in the semi-finals with a 1-0 victory over Angola.
In the 41st minute, Ademola Lookman, the former Fulham and Everton winger, struck a powerful shot to score the lone goal of the match, presenting the Super Eagles with a chance to secure their fourth AFCON title.
Facing resilient opposition in Abidjan, Nigeria’s star striker Victor Osimhen had two close calls in the first half with headers, the first thwarted by the goalkeeper and the second a nod across goal from Ola Aina’s long throw.
The decisive goal materialized just before halftime, orchestrated by Moses Simon’s run down the wing and Lookman’s clinical finish into the net after receiving a precise pass from Alex Iwobi.
As they look ahead to the semi-finals, Jose Peseiro’s side will confront the winner between Cape Verde and South Africa, who are set to clash in Yamoussoukro.
In the early stages of the second half, Nigeria aimed to secure their lead, with Calvin Bassey nodding over the bar from close range after Angola struggled to clear a corner.
Angola, however, came close to equalizing when Zini exploited a well-timed run from a defense-splitting pass, only to see his effort rebound off the post and out of danger.
Despite Victor Osimhen’s disallowed goal by VAR for offside, Nigeria continued to press, and Angola goalkeeper Antonio Dominique breathed a sigh of relief after the ball slipped through his hands.
In the closing minutes, Osimhen had another opportunity to seal the victory, but a remarkable last-ditch block from defender Kialonda Gaspar denied him the chance to make it 2-0.
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