In a stunning turn of events, Ivory Coast secured a fairy-tale victory on home soil, defeating Nigeria 2-1 in the Africa Cup of Nations final. Sebastian Haller’s decisive goal completed the comeback, capping off a remarkable journey for the Elephants.

Despite facing setbacks such as two group-stage losses and a managerial change, Ivory Coast’s path to the final included a penalty shootout triumph and a dramatic 122nd-minute winner. The hosts, who were on the verge of elimination after a 4-0 defeat by Equatorial Guinea, treated their fans to an unforgettable night in Abidjan.

In the first 45 minutes, Ivory Coast dominated the game, but William Troost-Ekong’s header against the run of play gave Nigeria the lead at halftime. The Super Eagles, having conceded only two goals on their way to the final, seemed poised to secure another narrow victory.

However, the tide turned at the hour mark when Franck Kessie scored a powerful header from a set-piece, leveling the score. Sebastian Haller then completed the turnaround with a brilliant finish into the far corner with just ten minutes remaining.

Despite Nigeria’s late push for an equalizer, Ivory Coast held firm, clinching their third AFCON trophy. The victory marked an incredible redemption for a team that had faced adversity throughout the tournament.