Nigeria secured a spot in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semifinals with a lone goal from Ademola Lookman against Angola on Friday. Meanwhile, the Democratic Republic of Congo joined them by overcoming Guinea after falling behind. Lookman, who had previously scored both goals in Nigeria’s win over Cameroon, netted the decisive goal in their third 1-0 victory of the tournament.
The goal, four minutes before halftime at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium, saw Moses Simon’s pass collected on the left, leading to Lookman finishing after a skillful play past Kialonda Gaspar. This victory marked Nigeria’s 15th appearance in the Cup of Nations semifinals, the highest among all countries.
Despite Victor Osimhen’s disallowed goal, Nigeria maintained a solid defense, securing their fourth consecutive clean sheet. Coach Jose Peseiro expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, emphasizing their focus on preventing goals.
Nigeria will face either Cape Verde or South Africa in the semifinals, scheduled for next Wednesday in Bouake. Angola, while leaving the tournament, achieved success by winning a knockout tie for the first time.
In the second match on Friday, DR Congo triumphed over Guinea 3-1 at the Ebimpe Olympic Stadium in Abidjan. Guinea initially took the lead with a penalty converted by Mohamed Bayo, but DR Congo responded with goals from Chancel Mbemba, Yoane Wissa, and a stunning late free-kick by Arthur Masuaku.
DR Congo, overcoming a group stage of drawn matches, secured a semifinal berth against either Mali or hosts Ivory Coast. The latter matchup will be decided in the quarterfinals on Saturday.
