The Nigerian team seemed set at the onset 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 netted a penalty to decide that first meeting, he rose to head in the opening goal late into 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 the orange “Elephants” at the Abidjan stands.
Spearheaded by reigning African player of the year Osimhen, the Nigerians had appeared as the most formidable team in the competition over the last month.
But Ivory Coast’s sense of defiance was overpowering, as they became the first host Country to win the AFCON since 2006.
Ivory Coast’s tonight’s success has amassed this year’s AFCON title, in addition to those formerly claimed in 1992 and 2015. While this win also allows them to join Nigeria with three Cup of Nations triumphs overall.
Only Egypt, Cameroon and Ghana have won the title more often, with the Super Eagles squandering the opportunity to match their Ghanaian rivals on a four-count victory over the previous years.
Didier Drogba captained the Elephants team that lost via penalties to Egypt in Cairo at the finals 18 years ago. This time, he was among the spectators to witness a stunning victory for his Country.
