The Ghanaian maestro’s brilliance sealed the Super Eagles’ fate in the AFCON semi-finals.

Nigeria had high hopes in the 1992 Africa Cup of Nations, and when Adepoju Mutiu fired them into an early lead in the semi-final against Ghana, the dream of reaching the final felt within reach. But one man had other plans—Abedi Ayew Pele.

The Black Stars’ talisman turned the game on its head, leading Ghana’s comeback with a stunning equalizer just before halftime. His mesmerizing dribbles, vision, and sheer determination overwhelmed the Super Eagles. Early in the second half, his brilliance set up Prince Polley for the winner, sealing Ghana’s place in the final.

Reflecting on that fateful night, former Nigerian striker Samson Siasia admitted: “Abedi Pele single-handedly finished us in the 1992 AFCON semi-final.”

However, fate was unkind to Ghana in the final. Without their suspended leader, the Black Stars struggled against Ivory Coast, eventually losing in an agonizing 11-10 penalty shootout. Despite the heartbreak, Pele’s dominance was undeniable. He was named the tournament’s best player and later crowned the 1992 CAF Player of the Year.

The Ghanaian icon retired as a three-time African Footballer of the Year, a CAF Champions League winner, and an AFCON champion, forever etching his name in African football history.