TDPel Media –
The dynamic Nigerian duo of William Troost-Ekong and Kelechi Iheanacho expressed admiration for Bafana Bafana’s performance in a closely contested semi-final clash at the 2023 AFCON.
Despite securing a hard-fought victory through a penalty shootout and securing a spot in the final, the Super Eagles’ players acknowledged the quality and resilience displayed by their South African opponents.
The Nail-Biting Encounter:
In a thrilling encounter that ended in a 1-1 draw after extra time, the two African powerhouses battled fiercely, eventually heading to a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.
Troost-Ekong, donning the captain’s armband for the Super Eagles, made a significant impact by converting a penalty early in the second half, giving Nigeria the lead.
However, Teboho Mokoena from Bafana Bafana leveled the terms from the spot late in the game.
The subsequent penalty shootout saw Troost-Ekong successfully converting his kick, while Mokoena’s attempt was thwarted by Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, guiding Nigeria to the final against Ivory Coast.
(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
Iheanacho’s Praise for Bafana Bafana:
Leicester City star Kelechi Iheanacho commended Bafana Bafana’s journey to the AFCON semi-finals, emphasizing their tactical awareness and execution.
Recognizing their effectiveness in specific areas of the pitch, Iheanacho praised the South African side, stating, “They’re a very good side. They played very well, they’ve been together for a long time, they know themselves. I think they’re a wonderful team.” He extended well wishes to Bafana Bafana for the upcoming third and fourth-place play-off against DR Congo.
Troost-Ekong Acknowledges Tough Battle:
Captain William Troost-Ekong admitted that the semi-final clash was “a difficult game,” highlighting South Africa’s fantastic performance.
He acknowledged the heart and skill demonstrated by Bafana Bafana, adding further weight to the sentiment that the encounter was a true test of both teams’ capabilities.
Bafana Bafana’s Impressive AFCON Journey:
(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
South Africa’s remarkable journey in the AFCON tournament has left an indelible mark. Despite an initial setback with a 2-0 loss to Mali, they bounced back with a resounding 4-0 victory against Namibia.
A crucial draw against Tunisia secured their place in the Last 16, where they triumphed 2-0 over Morocco. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams emerged as the hero in the quarterfinal, saving four penalties and propelling Bafana Bafana to the semi-finals.
Coach Broos’ Pride:
Coach Hugo Broos showered his charges with praise, expressing immense satisfaction with their performance. He stated, “They give me a lot of satisfaction.
I’m proud as a coach to be a coach of that team. So the rest the future will tell us.” Broos acknowledged the positive strides made by Bafana Bafana in the tournament and hinted at a promising future for the team.
The post Troost-Ekong and Iheanacho Laud Bafana Bafana’s Grit and Skill in AFCON Semi-Final Showdown appeared first on TDPel Media.
Also on TDPel Media:
Also on TDPel Media:Troost-Ekong Discloses Osimhen’s Approval for Crucial Penalty Kick in AFCON Clash Troost-Ekong’s Revelation: William Troost-Ekong, the vice-captain of Nigeria’s Super Eagles,…
Also on TDPel Media:Super Eagles’ Troost-Ekong Sidelines with Hamstring Injury – Absence Felt in AFCON Clash Against Guinea-Bissau Super Eagles’ Defensive Blow: Troost-Ekong Misses AFCON Clash Against Guinea-Bissau…
Also on TDPel Media:Troost-Ekong’s Recovery and Return to Training for Super Eagles – AFCON 2023 Benched in Crucial Match: During the Super Eagles of Nigeria’s…
Also on TDPel Media:Troost-Ekong and Yusuf Return to Full Training in Preparation for the Nigeria vs. Cameroon 2023 AFCON Match Super Eagles’ Boost for 2023 AFCON Round of 16 Clash…
Also on TDPel Media:Springboks vs. England: Rugby World Cup Semi-Final Showdown Springboks vs. England: Rugby World Cup Semi-Final Showdown In a…
Also on TDPel Media:Mamelodi Sundowns Ready for Showdown in African Football League Semi-Final Against Al Ahly Mamelodi Sundowns Head to Cairo for Crucial African Football League…
Also on TDPel Media:Stakeholders laud INEC for conducting credible off circle election in Kogi By Dorcas Jonah Some political stakeholders in Kogi have commended…
Also on TDPel Media:Dwayne Johnson Hits In-N-Out for ‘First’ Time, Fans Laud His Vibes Despite the Familiar Trip The Rock’s Repeat Visit Dwayne Johnson, known for his charisma…
Also on TDPel Media:Springboks Edge England in Thrilling Semi-Final to Reach 2023 Rugby World Cup Final Springboks Secure Thrilling Victory Over England to Reach 2023 Rugby…
Also on TDPel Media:Nigeria Mocks South Africa After Winning AFCON 2023 Semi Final 4-2 Nigerians Celebrate Triumph Over South Africa in AFCON 2023 Semi-Final…