AFCON 2023: Pereiro Applauds South Africa’s National Team after Leading Nigeria to the Final
Super Eagles head coach, Jose Pereiro, has applauded the resilience and organization of South Africa’s National Football Team after leading Nigeria to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Nigeria defeated South Africa on penalties in the semifinal of the AFCON on Wednesday to advance to their eighth final appearance at the continental showpiece.
However, Nigeria came out strong in the second half to break the deadlock courtesy of a William Troost-Ekong penalty after Victor Osimhen had done brilliantly to draw the foul in the box.
After securing victory in what was Nigeria’s first match in Cote D’ivoire to last into extra time and penalties, Coach Peseiro remains convinced that his side deserved to reach the final.
The former Porto boss was, however, full of commendation for South Africa and their Belgian coach for giving Nigeria a good fight.
Peseiro said after the game that South Africa has the best organization because they play together, and they created more problems for Nigeria.
According to him, it was very difficult for Super Eagles to beat them.
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Nigeria to meet South Africa in a Highly Anticipated Semifinal Match at the 2023 AFCON
Nigeria will meet Cote d’Ivoire in the final on Sunday after the hosts defeated DR Congo 1-0 in the other semifinal.
The two nations met during the group stages of the competition, with the Super Eagles claiming a tough 1-0 win thanks to Troost-Ekong’s well-taken penalty.
