The Super Eagles overcame Burkina Faso in a match that pitted two unlikey finalists together. While most of Africa was anticipating a Ivory Coast - Ghana final. It was one of the other traditional African superpowers that took the glory.
Nigeria had suprised many by reaching their first CAN final for 13 years when they lost to Cameroon in the 2000 showpiece. However having beaten the likes of Ivory Coast and Mali enroute to the final they fully warranted their place there and it was they who started the brightest. In particular Victor Moses worrying the Burkina Faso defence with a couple of mazy runs in the first 20 minutes.
Though It was Nigerian midfilelder Sunday Mba the matchwinner against Ivory Coast in the quarter final who again had the deciding say. He scored a brilliantly taken goal just before half-time when he clipped the ball over Burkinaina defender Mohamed Koffi and then volleyed into the far corner.
The second half was a cagey affair with not too many chances created but Nigeria looked more comfortable and held on for a historic win their third African title in total and their first since they beat Zambia in 1994. Soccer city became awash with the green and white colours of Nigeria as Captains, John Obi Mikel and Joseph Yobo lifted the cup.
The Super Eagles victory meant Stephen Keshi, who captained the Super Eagles when they last won the title in 1994 became only the second man to lift the trophy as a player and as a coach after Egyptian Mahmoud El Gohary. Keshi in particular will feel vindicated after he received widespread criticism for leaving players like Peter Odemwinge and Shola Ameobi out of his squad, his belief in youth and himself has paid dividends for Nigeria.
It was only 3 years ago that President Goodluck Jonathan had teomporarily banned the national team from international competition. This after they exited the 2010 World Cup at the group stages, three years on and they are African champions. Will this victory be the kickstart Nigeria need to become a dominant force in Africa once again? only time will tell for now its all about enjoying the moment.
The next CAN will be held in the summer of 2015 in Morocco. Until next time!
Ben
@creativafr | @Kwesitheauthor