Unforgettable: Super Eagles relive memorable Lookman heroics for Nigeria at AFCON 2023

Ademola Lookman was the hero against Angola.

Unforgettable: Super Eagles relive memorable Lookman heroics for Nigeria at AFCON 2023

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 10:30 - 02.02.2025

The Super Eagles have taken to social media to relive the moments against Angola in the AFCON 2023 semis.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have celebrated a key anniversary as they reflected on their hard-fought 1-0 victory over Angola in the quarterfinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The team's social media account captured the moment perfectly, stating, “One year ago today, we booked our place in the AFCON 2023 semi-finals with a solid win over Angola in Abidjan! Unforgettable moment for the Super Eagles.”

The match, held at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan, saw Nigeria overcome a spirited Angolan side, with Ademola Lookman emerging as the standout player, scoring the decisive goal just before halftime.

The game began with Angola putting pressure on Nigeria, but Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made a crucial save to deny Mabululu’s attempt early on.

Lookman with the iconic celebration after the win against Angola.
Lookman with the iconic celebration after the win against Angola.

As the first half progressed, Nigeria struggled to break through Angola's organised defence until Moses Simon made a brilliant run in the 41st minute. He delivered a precise cross to Lookman, who calmly finished to give Nigeria the lead.

After the interval, Angola nearly equalised when substitute Zine struck the post with his effort. Despite their best attempts, they could not find the back of the net. Victor Osimhen thought he had doubled Nigeria’s lead with a header from Lookman’s free-kick, but VAR ruled it offside after a lengthy review.

The narrow win was enough to get Nigeria to the semifinals for the 15th time in AFCON history and a date with rivals South Africa. Angola's impressive tournament run came to an end despite their spirited performance throughout the competition.

With the win, the Super Eagles continued their quest for a fourth AFCON title against South Africa in the last four before eventually failing in the final against the hosts Cote d’Ivoire.