LIVE UPDATES
Nigeria edged out a determined Angola 1-0 in a thrilling AFCON quarterfinal encounter on Friday.
The Super Eagles started brightly, nearly scoring in the opening seconds, but Angola responded well and created several chances of their own.
Ademola Lookman broke the deadlock for Nigeria just before halftime, finishing clinically after a mazy run from Moses Simon.
Angola came out strong in the second half and hit the post through Zini, but Victor Osimhen almost doubled Nigeria's lead with a powerful header in the 75th minute.
The goal was disallowed for offside. Osimhen missed a clear chance late on, but Nigeria held on for a hard-fought victory despite finishing the game with 10 men after Osimhen was stretchered off with a cramp.
Key Moments:
Nigeria nearly scores in the opening seconds but their shot is saved.12th minute:
Angola hit the post with a header from Gilberto.41st minute:
Lookman scores for Nigeria with a clinical finish after a good run from Simon.56th minute:
Angola hit the post again, this time through Zini.75th minute:
Osimhen has a goal disallowed for offside.90+3 minute:
Osimhen is stretchered off with a cramp, leaving Nigeria with 10 men.
Man of the Match:
Moses Simon was a constant threat for Nigeria on the left wing, creating several chances and assisting Lookman's goal.
Talking Points:
Nigeria's defence was solid throughout the game, especially in the second half when Angola pressed for an equalizer.
* Osimhen was a handful for the Angolan defence, scoring one goal and creating several other chances.
* Angola will be disappointed with the result, but they can be proud of their performance against a strong Nigerian team.
Overall:
It was a tense and exciting match, with both teams having chances to win. Nigeria ultimately deserved the victory thanks to their clinical finishing and strong defence.
They will now face the winner of the match between Egypt and Morocco in the semifinals.
