Saka, Solanke lead Nigerians in diaspora to celebrate Super Eagles win over South Africa

Nigerians in diaspora celebrate Super Eagles | Imago

Saka, Solanke lead Nigerians in diaspora to celebrate Super Eagles win over South Africa

Ayoola Kelechi 19:10 - 08.02.2024

They may not represent Nigeria at the international level, but these players are proud to be associated with the AFCON 2023 finalists

As celebrations continue following Nigeria’s dramatic AFCON 2023 semifinal win over South Africa, footballers and other celebrities with Nigerian heritage have lent their voice to commemorate the Super Eagles reaching their first AFCON final since 2013. 

Nigeria overcome South Africa in tense semifinal

Nigeria secured a hard-fought victory against South Africa in a penalty shootout, booking their place in the tournament's final after Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerged as the hero for the Super Eagles, making two crucial saves during the penalty shootout. 

The thrilling encounter saw Troost-Ekong initially give Nigeria a 1-0 lead with a penalty, but Teboho Mokoena's late spot-kick for South Africa forced the match into extra time. In the end, substitute Kelechi Iheanacho sealed Nigeria's fate, confidently converting the decisive penalty kick to propel them to their first AFCON final since 2013.

Nigerians in diaspora support Super Eagles

Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka was one of the most notable names to celebrate the Super Eagles’ victory and was joined by Grammy-nominated rapper WALE who also posted a message on social media platform X formerly known as Twitter. 

Former Chelsea stars Fikayo Tomori and Tammy Abraham also posted congratulatory messages, as did Bournemouth star Dominic Solanke. 

With Nigeria vying for their first AFCON title in a decade when they play hosts Ivory Coast on Sunday, the Super Eagles can count on support from Nigerians both home and away in the biggest match in the country’s recent history.