Super Eagles team B yesterday zoomed into the semi finals of the ongoing African Nations Championship, CHAN in Morocco at the expense of a rugged Angolan team who led with a second half goal from Vladimir Vá.
It took Okechukwu Gabriel extra-time strike to make it 2-1 win at the Stade Ibn Batouta in Tangier, Morocco after Vladimir Vá’s second-half goal swung the game in Angola’s favour.
Just as the southern African side were already celebrating their imminent victory, Anthony Okpotu levelled matters in stoppage-time and Gabriel settled matters in the 109th minute of the clash. As a result, Nigeria will take on Sudan in Marrakech on Wednesday for a place in the tournament showpiece.
Okpotu squandered a golden chance to put the Super Eagles in front within the opening 20 seconds of the clash. But, having burst through on goal, the forward slipped at the vital moment with only the goalkeeper to beat. Having navigated through a relentless spell of pressure, Palancas Negras threatened to make the Super Eagles rue their missed opportunities as they gained the upper-hand in the closing stages of the first half.
Ikechukwu Ezenwa was impressive throughout in goal for Nigeria and the shot-stopper pulled of three great saves to deny Calesso Manu within the space of six pulsating minutes.
Okpotu, though, had another chance to put Nigeria a goal up just short of the break, but Braulio Nary was well positioned to clear off the line after Mavanga Landu misjudged a cross into the area.
Source: Vanguard
