AFCON 2023: 3 Tactics the Super Eagles used to defeat South Africa and book a place in the final

Lagos State Governor Sanwo-Olu hails Nwabali after Super Eagles beat South Africa for AFCON 2023 final spot.

AFCON 2023: 3 Tactics the Super Eagles used to defeat South Africa and book a place in the final

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 21:33 - 07.02.2024

The Super Eagles of Nigeria booked a place in the AFCON 2023 final after defeating South Africa on penalties.

Jose Peseiro implemented some tactical changes to help Nigeria defeat Bafana Bafana of South Africa in the AFCON 2023 semi-final.

Peseiro's use of a low-block 

Jose Peseiro implemented a strategic shift, transitioning from the recent high-pressing style to a low defensive block. 

This tactical adjustment aimed to conserve energy for Nigeria and allowed them to be more selective in their attacking moments during a tense match.

After a lethargic first half, the Super Eagles exploded to life in the second period and could have wrapped up the game if the forwards had taken their chances.

Perfect substitutions

Despite Alhassan's error in gifting South Africa a penalty, he added boundless energy to a midfield that was starting to look tired. 

Peseiro's decision to introduce Joe Aribo and Kelechi Iheanacho at the start of extra-time gave the Super Eagles extra impetus as Bafana Bafana visibly tired out mentally and physically.

Peseiro gave Iheanacho his moment

Iheanacho was yet to appear at AFCON 2023 with rumours of a rift between player and manager doing the rounds in the hours before kick-off. 

Still, Peseiro turned to the Leicester City man and he delivered by stepping up to convert the decisive penalty.

Iheanacho will now hope that his superb cameo can be a springboard for a place in the final.