The AFCON final between rivals Nigeria and host nation Ivory Coast was a dramatic match. .
Ivorian fans were silenced against the run of play when Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong headed the Super Eagles in front in the 38th minute.
But the Ivory Coast fought back valiantly on home soil. Franck Kessie equalized with a towering header of his own in the 62nd minute as the stadium in Abidjan erupted.
The tide had turned. In the 81st minute, Sebastien Haller flicked in a cross from Adingra to put Ivory Coast ahead. The Ivorian supporters were in dreamland while Nigerian hearts sank.
Late Agony for Nigeria as Ivory Coast Lift Trophy
The Super Eagles threw everything forward in search of an equalizer in the closing stages but it was not to be. The final whistle was met with wild celebrations across the host nation. Ivory Coast prevailed 2-1 to claim their first AFCON title since 2015 on an unforgettable night in Abidjan.
Streets of Nigeria Filled With Angry Nigerians
In contrast, the streets in Nigeria were filled with sadness and despair. Fans watched in stunned silence or broke down in tears as their team’s dream ended in agony.
Instead of parades and parties, there was only grief. The Super Eagles came so close to glory but were ultimately left heartbroken, epitomizing the somber mood across Nigeria.
