AFCON 2023: Cote D'Ivoire defeat Nigeria to emerge champions
Host nation, Cote D'Ivoire have emerged champions of the 2023 African Cup of Nations after beating Nigeria in the final on Sunday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The Elephants of Cote D'Ivoire came from behind to defeat the Super Eagles of Nigeria 2-1 at the Alassane Quattara Stadium Ebimpe to clinch their third African Cup of Nations title after 90 minutes.
After a dominating start by the host, the Super Eagles scored from their first corner kick after Ademola Lookman's cross was headed unto William Troost-Ekong who headed the ball into the net to give Nigeria the lead in the 38 minute.
At the commencement of the second half, the Cote D'Ivoire resumed with the ascendency of the first half and were rewarded with the equaliser through Frank Kessie's header in the 62nd minute.
The Ivorians maintained the momentum, pushing for the winner and it eventually came 10 minutes to the end of the game.
Sebastien Haller was alert to flick in Simon Adingra's cross which beat goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to give the hosts the lead and the winner at the sound of the final whistle.
The Elephants became the first hosts to win the title since Egypt in 2006, while the Super Eagles lost in an AFCON final for the 5th time.
Uche Dozie
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