Emmanuel Emenike and Sunday Mba scored, as the Super Eagles of Nigeria, against all odds, defeated the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire, to qualify for the last four of the AFCON 2013.
The Nigerians started brightly against the Ivorians, who were bookmakers’ strong favourites to go and lift the trophy. The front three of Emenike, Moses and Ideye caused Drogba and co all sorts of problems, with their pace and directness, but failed to convert the chances they created.
However, in the 42nd minute, Emenike fired the Eagles in front, with a thunderous free-kick. A loss of concentration in the Nigerians’ defence allowed Cheik Tiote to head in Drogba‘s free-kick.
Stephen Keshi’s men fought back and got a deserved winner, after Mba stormed through the middle and saw his effort fly past Barry. Nigeria will now face Mali in the semis.
In the second game of the day, Jonathan Pitroipa’s extra time header, ensured Burkina Faso made it through to the semi-finals, after a rather cagey and tense affair against Togo. They will now face Ghana for a place in the finals.
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