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William Troost-Ekong took it on the death of Nigeria, who had to leave South Africa with a broken heart. AFP
The late winner of William Troost-Ekong sent Nigeria to the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals on Wednesday after his 2-1 win over South Africa in Cairo.
Samuel Chukwueze gave the Super Eagles the advantage in the first half before a healthy crowd, mostly pro-Nigerian, in the Cairo International Stadium, with a capacity of 75,000 seats.
But Bongani Zungu's head gave the advantage to South Africa at 70 minutes, the goal awarded with the help of VAR – introduced for the first time in the tournament from the quarter-finals – after being initially excluded.
Troost-Ekong's backcourt then turned to a minute from the end to allow Nigeria, triple champion, to face Algeria or Ivory Coast in order to qualify for the final of July 19th.
"We were fortunate in the end to score this second goal because South Africa played a lot better in the second half," said Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr.
South African boss Stuart Baxter admitted that the nature of the defeat was difficult to digest.
"It's hard to lose a game in the last few minutes, it's hard to find any positives. I am sure that in a week I will find positive elements, but for now, I find it very difficult, "he said.
Left-back Jamilu Collins made his first appearance in Egypt after getting rid of his pre-tournament injury while Villarreal striker, Chukwueze, replaced Moses Simon for the first time. Nigerian attack.
Baxter stayed with the same side that shocked host Egypt in the final round, with Thembinkosi Lorch, the winner of the match, retaining his place despite Themba Zwane's suspension.
Rohr had suggested to South Africa to be among the favorites after breaking the seven-time champion record, a label Baxter quickly rejected, the only competitive victory of Bafana Bafana over Nigeria qualifying for the final.
VAR makes its mark
Odion Ighalo's goals were the driving force for Nigeria, but it was the young emerging striker Chukwueze, who had a strong first season in the Spanish high league. He knocked just before half an hour to end the stalemate.
Alex Iwobi pbaded by a couple of defenders on the left before retiring for Chukwueze, who dipped into the corner when the ball returned to normal after a first shot was blocked.
After a heavy first half, Nigeria emerged as the clearest player after the break, with Peter Etebo tying the crossbar with a superb 25-yard free-kick.
A number of promising attacks hit Nigeria and their lack of precision came back to haunt them when Zungu carried the ball to the height of South Africa. .
But after Egypt's dramatic elimination of Mohamed Salah, South Africa was not to follow suit. Williams beat in a dangerous corner and Troost-Ekong forced the right knee to win Nigeria's victory.
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