AFCON 2023: Ademola Lookman’s Goal Propels Nigeria to Semifinals, Democratic Republic of Congo Triumphs Over Guinea
Ademola Lookman secured a crucial goal for Nigeria, propelling them to a victory over Angola and securing a spot in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals.
The match took place at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium, with Lookman netting
four minutes before halftime.
Moses Simon’s swift play on the left and a well-executed pass set up Lookman to score.
This solitary goal marked Nigeria’s third 1-0 win in the tournament, earning them a place in their 15th Cup of
Nations semi-final, the most appearances by any country.
Victor Osimhen, the reigning African footballer of the year, had a disallowed goal for
offside, and despite efforts, he remains goalless since Nigeria’s opening 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea.
Nigeria’s solid defensive performance, resulting in four consecutive clean sheets, aligns with coach Jose Peseiro’s strategy focused on preventing goals.
Nigeria now advances to the semi-finals, set to face either Cape Verde or South Africa in
Bouake next Wednesday. Angola, although going home, achieved success by winning a knockout
tie for the first time in this AFCON.
In the second match, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) defeated Guinea 3-1 at the Ebimpe Olympic Stadium in Abidjan. Guinea initially took the lead with Mohamed Bayo converting a penalty, but DR Congo equalized through Chancel Mbemba before halftime.
The Congolese secured victory with a penalty by Yoane Wissa in the 65th minute,
and Besiktas full-back Arthur Masuaku sealed the win with a remarkable late free-kick.
DR Congo, having drawn all three group stage matches, overcame Egypt on penalties in the last 16.
They now prepare for a semi-final clash against either Mali or hosts Ivory Coast, who
face off in the quarter-finals on Saturday.
Read more related news updates on sporttoday.co.uk
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