The three-time winners advanced to the final of the continental championships for the eighth time in history
Former Super Eagles midfielder Sunday Oliseh has lauded the performances of Nigerian stars Victor Osimhen and Stanley Nwabali against South Africa on Wednesday, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nigeria defeated South Africa 4-2 on penalties after the two teams played out a thrilling 1-1 draw in Bouake, as the Super Eagles advanced to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Osimhen overcame health complications that made him a doubt for the clash to post another eye-catching display for Nigeria.
The Napoli forward worked his socks off and even won the penalty which William Troost-Ekong converted to hand Nigeria the opening goal.
Nwabali, who has been one of Nigeria’s best performers at the AFCON, also delivered another brilliant showing.
The Chippa United goalie made a string of saves in the first half when South Africa were on the ascendancy.
The 27-year-old star then left his best for the penalty shootout where he made two saves to send Nigeria through to the final on Sunday.
Troost-Ekong, Samuel Chukuweze, Frank Onyeka, and Ola Aina also had an eventful evening but former Juventus ace Oliseh reserved his praises for Osimhen and Nwabali.
Oliseh wrote on Twitter: “Nwabali! Nwabali!! Nwabali!!! After Osimhen’s 5 star performance, another hero is born!
“What composure, belief in God and a reassuring Smile by our Naija goalkeeper to send us to the AFCON Final. Now i can face my FIFA colleagues with a smile.”
South Africa will trade tackles with DR Congo in the third-place match on Saturday, while Nigeria will meet hosts Cote d’Ivoire in the title decider the following day.