Ivory Coast Win The 2023 AFCON Title with a Thrilling Comeback Win Against Nigeria
In a tournament brimming with twists and turns, the final of the 2023 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations lived up to the hype, with host nation Ivory Coast staging a dramatic comeback to defeat Nigeria 2-1 and lift the trophy on home soil.
After qualifying for the knockout stages as one of the best losers, few expected Ivory Coast to challenge, especially after losing their second group stage match to the eventual finalists, Nigeria and a heavy defeat against Equatorial Guinea in the final group match. However, the Elephants displayed incredible resilience and determination throughout the tournament, culminating in a breathtaking victory on Sunday night.
The match at the Stade d’Ebimpé in Abidjan was a tense affair, with high intensity and close calls from both sides. Nigeria struck first in the 38th minute through a looping header from captain William Troost-Ekong, sending shockwaves through the home crowd.
But Ivory Coast refused to crumble. Led by the mesmerizing performance of Brighton forward Simon Adingra, they piled on the pressure in the second half. Adingra came close on several occasions, denied by a resolute Stanley Nwabali in the Nigerian goal. Finally, in the 62nd minute, Adingra’s magic paid off as he set up Franck Kessié for the equalizer, sending the stadium into a frenzy.
With the momentum firmly in their grasp, Ivory Coast pressed for the winner. And it was Adingra once again who provided the spark, this time teeing up Sébastien Haller for the decisive goal in the 81st minute. The stadium erupted in celebration as the Elephants completed a remarkable comeback against their fierce rivals.
This victory was particularly sweet for Ivory Coast, having lost to Nigeria in the group stage and facing criticism after a shaky start to the tournament. Interim head coach Emerse Faé, who took charge after the dismissal of the previous coach, deserves immense credit for transforming the team’s fortunes. He guided them to a perfect record in his four games, defeating Senegal, Mali, DR Congo, and finally, Nigeria, to etch his name in Ivory Coast‘s footballing history.
The 2023 AFCON will be remembered for its unpredictability and exciting matches, with the final serving as a fitting climax. Ivory Coast‘s journey from near despair to ultimate glory embodies the spirit of the tournament, showcasing the extraordinary talent and passion on display throughout.
