IVORY COAST HALTS SUPER EAGLES FLIGHT TO WIN AFCON CUP

Super Eagles lost to hosts Ivory Coast in a thrilling Africa Cup of Nations final match at the Alassane Ouattara Olympic Stadium in Ebimpe, Abidjan, on Sunday.

Nigeria looked set to repeat their 1-0 victory over the Ivorians here at the Ebimpe Olympic Stadium during the group stage when captain William Troost-Ekong -– who had netted a penalty to decide that first meeting -– rose to head in the opener late in the first half.

However, Franck Kessie equalised just after the hour mark and Haller turned in Simon Adingra’s cross in the 81st minute to spark wild celebrations among the sea of orange in the Abidjan stands.

Ivory Coast’s success sees them add this year’s title to those claimed in 1992 and 2015, while this win also allows them to join Nigeria on three Cup of Nations triumphs overall.