AFCON Drama Unfolds: Nigeria Triumphs, Egypt and Ghana Share the Spoils

In a captivating round of AFCON matches, the Olympic Stadium of Ebimpé witnessed William Troost-Ekong’s heroics, as his second-half penalty secured a vital 1-0 victory for Nigeria over host nation Ivory Coast. The Super Eagles, under pressure after a draw in their opening game against Equatorial Guinea, now find themselves on the verge of reaching the knockout stage.

Jos Peseiro’s charges displayed a significant improvement in defensive stability, putting an end to a frustrating six-game run of conceding at least one goal. Despite the defensive feat, star player Victor Osimhen faced frustration with his overall performance, despite earning the penalty that facilitated the win. Referee Mustapha Ghorbal awarded the spot kick after consulting video replays and determining a foul on Osimhen by Ousmane Diomande. Troost-Ekong, taking responsibility, confidently fired the penalty down the center of the goal in the 55th minute.

The Super Eagles victory relegates Cote d’ivore to third place in Group A with three points, trailing Equatorial Guinea and Nigeria. The upcoming clash between Ivory Coast and Equatorial Guinea, along with Nigeria facing Guinea-Bissau in the final round of group games, promises heightened excitement in the ongoing AFCON tournament as they are qualifications deciders.

In a late kickoff at Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Egypt faced a rollercoaster match against Ghana, marked by an unfortunate injury to Mohamed Salah. Despite Salah’s early exit, Egypt managed to come from behind twice to secure a thrilling 2-2 draw. Star player Mohammed Kudus shone with a remarkable brace, scoring in first-half injury time and responding swiftly after Ghana’s equalizers.

Kudus’s first goal in the 45+3 minute showcased his skill as he received the ball from Salis Abdul Samed, eluded defenders, and fired a powerful shot from outside the area past Egypt’s goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy. Despite Egypt’s persistence and Marmoush equalizing in the 69th minute, Kudus responded in the 71st minute with a deflected shot inside the far post. Another defensive lapse from Osman Bukari allowed Mostafa Mohamed to equalize in the 74th minute, securing a 2-2 draw.

Ghana finds itself at the bottom of Group B with one point, tied with Mozambique. The qualification path for Ghana to the next round now hinges on the outcomes of other Group B matches. Ghana faces Mozambique in their last group match, while Egypt squares off against Cape Verde in a potentially qualifications decider.