Ivory Coast made history by becoming the first host nation since Egypt in 2006 to clinch the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, following their thrilling victory over Nigeria on Sunday night.
Sebastien Haller emerged as the hero once again for the Elephants, orchestrating a remarkable comeback to secure a 2-1 win. Haller, who had previously scored the semi-final winner just 13 months after overcoming testicular cancer, sealed the victory with a deft flick of his boot to redirect Simon Adingra’s cross into the net with nine minutes remaining, igniting jubilant celebrations in Abidjan.
Nigeria had taken the lead seven minutes before halftime courtesy of a stunning header from William Troost-Ekong, leaving the Super Eagles poised to secure their fourth AFCON title.
However, Ivory Coast emerged from the halftime break revitalized and launched a relentless assault in search of an equalizer. Their persistence paid off in the 62nd minute when Franck Kessie found himself unmarked at the back post to slot home Adingra’s corner.
With the game poised for a tense finale, Adingra surged down the right flank and delivered a pinpoint cross that met Haller’s boot, completing the turnaround for Ivory Coast.
This triumph marked a remarkable turnaround for the Ivorians, who overcame adversity, including the departure of coach Jean-Louis Gasset after two defeats in the group stage, to claim their third continental title. Building on their previous Nations Cup victories in 1992 and 2015, Ivory Coast cemented their status as champions and became the first host nation to lift the trophy since Egypt in 2006.
A win for Ivory Coast is a win for Africa.🤣 pic.twitter.com/ypBS73H6yQ
— SIKAOFFICIAL🦍 (@SIKAOFFICIAL1) February 12, 2024