Super Eagles player ratings for AFCON semi-final win over South Africa

In a dramatic semifinal clash at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké, Nigeria’s Super Eagles sealed their spot in the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a tense penalty shootout victory over South Africa.

The match, which ended 1-1 after regulation and extra time, saw both teams exhibit impressive performances in a thrilling end-to-end encounter.

Here’s a breakdown of the Super Eagles players’ performances:

1. Stanley Nwabali (8.5/10): The Chippa United goalkeeper showcased remarkable skill, making four crucial saves during regular play and two more during the penalty shootout, solidifying Nigeria’s defense.
2. Bright Osayi-Samuel (7/10): The Fernabache full-back delivered a solid performance, completing 91% of his passes and contributing defensively before being substituted for Kenneth Omeruo.
3. William Troost Ekong (7.6/10): As team captain, the PAOK central defender displayed leadership, scoring a vital penalty and demonstrating expertise in defense and penalty-taking.
4. Semi Ajayi (6.8/10): The West Bromwich Albion defender proved formidable in aerial battles and provided valuable support in attack when needed.
5. Calvin Bassey (7.5/10): The Fulham defender exhibited strength and resilience, winning all of his duels and ensuring defensive stability.
6. Ola Aina (7/10): Despite being deployed on the left side due to Zaidu’s injury, the Nottingham Forest full-back delivered decent crosses while battling on his weaker side.
7. Frank Onyeka (7/10): The Brentford midfielder contributed tirelessly in midfield, disrupting South Africa’s play with well-timed tackles and interceptions.
8. Alex Iwobi (6.5/10): The former Arsenal player struggled with the intensity of the South African midfield before being substituted in the second half.
9. Ademola Lookman (6.2/10): The Atalanta forward missed a golden opportunity but remained a threat, creating chances and attracting attention from the opposition.
10. Moses Simon (5/10): The Nantes winger faced difficulties beating his marker and was dispossessed frequently before being replaced by Samuel Chukwueze.
11. Victor Osimhen (7.5/10): Osimhen’s skill and tenacity earned Nigeria a crucial penalty and tested the South African defense throughout the match.

Substitutes:

• Yussuf Alhassan (5.5/10): The Antwerp midfielder struggled defensively and conceded a crucial foul that led to South Africa’s equalizer.
• Samuel Chukwueze (6/10): Chukwueze injected energy into Nigeria’s attack but faced challenges with decision-making.
• Joe-Ayodele Aribo (6/10): The Southampton midfielder provided stability in midfield and avoided errors that could lead to goals.
• Kelechi Iheanacho (6.3/10): Iheanacho made valuable contributions offensively, scoring the winning penalty in the shootout.
• Terem Moffi (6/10): Moffi demonstrated composure under pressure, converting his penalty confidently during the shootout.
• Kenneth Omeruo: The Kasimpasa defender confidently dispatched his penalty, contributing to Nigeria’s shootout victory.