Nigeria and South Africa face off in a high-stakes battle for a spot in the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
This marks the fourth encounter between the two sides in the AFCON, with the Super Eagles claiming victory in all three previous matches, boasting an aggregate score of 8-1.
Both teams have showcased impressive performances leading up to the semi-final, with Nigeria maintaining an unbeaten record while South Africa faced an early setback against Mali.
In preparation for the clash, Nigeria’s head coach, Jose Peseiro, made a single change to the starting lineup against South Africa, with Bright Osayi-Samuel stepping in for the injured Zaidu Sanusi.
Peseiro stuck with his trusted 3-4-3 formation, fielding Stanley Nwabali in goal, and William Troost-Ekong, Semi Ajayi, and Calvin Bassey forming the defensive line.
In midfield, Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Osayi-Samuel, and Ola Aina will hold the fort, while Victor Osimhen, Moses Simon, and Ademola Lookman lead the charge in attack.
Nigeria’s Starting XI against South Africa:
Stanley Nwabali, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, and Ademola Lookman.
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Nigeria earned a penalty in the 62nd minute as a South African defender brings down Osimhen in the box.
In the 65th minute, Ekong converts a penalty kick, securing Nigeria’s 1-0 lead against South Africa.
In the 83rd minute, Osimhen finds the net, but VAR intervenes, awarding a penalty to South Africa instead.
Rules for a penalty for South Africa.
Mokoena equalizes for South Africa in the 87th minute, with a successful penalty kick, leveling the score to 1-1 against Nigeria.
