AFCON 2023: Ivory Coast win final against Nigeria with late Haller’s touch

Ivory Coast have secured a dramatic win in the Africa Cup of Nations final against Nigeria at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium.

The hosts emerged victorious after coming from behind to defeat Nigeria 2-1 in the tense encounter.

Ivory Coast started the game with a strong, aggressive performance, displaying confidence and creating several goal-scoring opportunities.

The atmosphere in the stadium was lively and electric, adding to the intensity of the match.

However, Nigeria managed to take the lead, even with their poor run of play.

The Super Eagles won a corner that was met by William Troost-Ekong, who headed the ball into the net to give Jose Peseiro’s men the lead going into half-time.

Undeterred, Ivory Coast regrouped and came out firing in the second half.

They equalized through a well-executed set piece, with Franck Kessie rising above the defense to powerfully head the ball into the net.

The match seemed destined for extra time, but Ivory Coast had other plans.

In the dying minute of the game, Sebastien Haller, who had missed the start of the tournament due to injury, seized the opportunity and scored the decisive goal.

Haller’s timely strike secured the Africa Cup of Nations title for Ivory Coast in a thrilling finale, to take their tally to three, after winning it last in 2015.