In a tournament where expectations were low, the Super Eagles defied the odds and captivated the world by reaching the AFCON final in February.

This wasn’t the first time Nigeria excelled when underestimated; their triumph at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta is a testament to their resilience on the global stage.

There’s no denying the quality of this squad. The team boasts some of the best players in top European leagues, blending talent and experience.

Yet, there were doubts over their form leading into the tournament, and many wrote them off.

The Super Eagles had been plagued by inconsistency and a lack of team spirit, leading to skepticism.

Their 2-0 loss to Guinea in the final pre-AFCON friendly only deepened concerns.

However, under the defensive mastermind Jose Peseiro, the three-time African champions once again rose to the occasion, making their way to the final.

The semifinal against South Africa ended in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout after a dramatic 1-1 draw in regular time.

Nigeria initially took the lead with captain Troost-Ekong converting from the spot.

Then, what seemed like a 2-0 lead after Victor Osimhen’s goal was overturned by VAR which identified a foul in the build-up.

Goal canceled. Penalty awarded to South Africa. The tension among Nigerians was palpable.

South Africa converted, levelling the score at 1-1. With no further goals in extra time, the match proceeded to penalties.

South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams had previously saved four penalties in a goalless draw against Cape Verde, fueling anxiety among Nigerian fans.

Saving four penalties is no small feat and some even thought it was the end of the road.

But the Super Eagles rose to the occasion, converting four of their five penalties.

And the hero of the night was Stanley Nwabali, who made two crucial saves to send Nigeria into the final.

Reflecting on the moment, Kelechi Iheanacho, who scored the decisive penalty posted: “What a moment! I even forgot to hug the hero @nwabalibobo.”

After scoring, Iheanacho celebrated by removing his shirt and sprinting around the pitch in sheer euphoria.

It was a night to remember, one that will remain fresh in the memories of Nigerians for a long time.