Dortmund striker Sebastien Haller concluded an extraordinary personal journey with a fairytale ending, securing Ivory Coast’s African Cup of Nations glory on home soil.

Haller’s remarkable comeback unfolded after being diagnosed with testicular cancer following his move from Ajax to Borussia Dortmund in July 2022. Overcoming the deadly disease, he returned to action just over a year after undergoing surgery and chemotherapy.

In the thrilling final against Nigeria, Haller, the former West Ham striker, emerged as his nation’s hero, scoring a late winner after Ivory Coast had to come from behind. Captain William Troost-Ekong had given the Super Eagles a first-half lead, leaving fans inside the Alassane Ouattara Stadium fearing the worst. However, a second-half comeback, capped by Haller’s decisive goal, marked a fitting conclusion to his extraordinary journey.

Midfielder Franck Kessie leveled the score just past the hour mark, setting the stage for a dramatic finale. While it seemed the final might head into an extra half-hour to avoid penalties, Haller’s goal, nine minutes from time, ignited jubilant celebrations in the stands and on the dugout, with Chelsea legend Didier Drogba leading the charge.

The victory is particularly noteworthy considering Ivory Coast’s head coach, Emerse Fae, took charge of the team midway through the tournament during the round of 16. Remarkably, it was Fae’s first experience at the first-team level, having previously coached Nice youth sides, Clermont reserves, and the Ivorian U23s. With Haller’s contribution, Fae secured national hero status by leading his nation to their third AFCON title.