The first half of the 2023 CAF African Cup of Nations final in Ivory Coast was filled with action and drama. Here’s a summary of the key moments:
Ivory Coast dominated possession and had six attempts on goal, with three of them on target.
Simon Adingra had a clear chance to score in the 8th minute but sent his shot over the crossbar.
Franck Kessie required medical attention in the 10th minute due to an apparent injury.
Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen committed a foul in the 27th minute, resulting in a yellow card for coach Jose Peseiro.
Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabili made a crucial save in the 34th minute to deny Simon Adingra’s shot.
Nigeria’s captain, William Troost-Ekong, scored a header in the 38th minute to give Nigeria the lead.
Ivory Coast’s Seko Fofana had a chance from long range in added time, but Nwabili made a comfortable save.
The first half showcased intense competition between the two teams, with Nigeria holding a narrow lead at halftime.