The stage is set for the semi-final matches of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, set to kick off tomorrow with two highly anticipated encounters.
The first sees Nigeria take on South Africa, while the second pits Ivory Coast against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
As we approach these critical fixtures, let’s take a closer look at the journey of the semi-finalists in the tournament thus far.
Ivory Coast National Team:
Ivory Coast navigated through the group stage with mixed results, securing only three points.
Their journey included a victory against Guinea-Bissau but suffered defeats against Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea.
However, they advanced as one of the best third-placed teams.
In the Round of 16, they triumphed over Senegal in a dramatic penalty shootout, followed by a hard-fought victory against Mali in the quarter-finals, sealing their spot in the semi-finals.
So far, Ivory Coast has scored five goals in the tournament while conceding six.
South Africa National Team:
South Africa’s campaign started with a defeat but quickly turned around with a resounding victory over Namibia and a goalless draw against Tunisia in the group stage.
They continued their impressive run by defeating Morocco in the Round of 16 and Cape Verde in the quarter-finals, showcasing their resilience and determination to advance to the semi-finals.
South Africa has scored six goals in the tournament, conceding only two.
Democratic Republic of Congo National Team:
The Democratic Republic of Congo faced a challenging group stage, securing just three points from three draws.
However, they advanced to the knockout stage, where they overcame Egypt in a thrilling penalty shootout before defeating Guinea in the quarter-finals, securing their place in the semi-finals.
Their tally stands at six goals scored and four goals conceded in the tournament so far.
Nigeria National Team:
Nigeria showcased their strength in the group stage with a win against Ivory Coast and Equatorial Guinea, along with a draw against Equatorial Guinea.
They continued their impressive form in the knockout stage, defeating Cameroon in the Round of 16 and Angola in the quarter-finals, setting up a semi-final clash against South Africa.
Nigeria has scored seven goals and conceded none in the tournament.
As the semi-finals approach, anticipation mounts for what promises to be thrilling encounters between these formidable teams vying for continental glory.
