Sebastien Haller was the hero for Ivory Coast again as the Elephants came from behind to beat Nigeria and win the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) final on home soil.

The striker, who had also netted the semi-final winner just 13 months on from his return from testicular cancer, flicked in Simon Adingra’s cross with the toe of his boot with nine minutes remaining to complete a second-half comeback and spark wild celebrations in Abidjan.

Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara hoists Afcon trophy during celebrations with players

William Troost-Ekong had put Nigeria ahead seven minutes before the end of a cagey first-half when the centre-back rose highest to powerfully head in from nine yards out following a corner.

However, Franck Kessie nodded in the equaliser in the 62nd minute when he was left unmarked at the back post from Adingra’s corner.

After a remarkable run to the final, which included the departure of coach Jean-Louis Gasset following two defeats in the group stage, the Ivorians clinched a third continental title with a deserved victory.

In a highly anticipated Afcon 2023 final between two established African football powers both falling on hard times in recent years, it was the hosts who had the last of their nine lives remaining.

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Both teams made it this far on the backs of late drama, so it was fitting that it was won in the final minutes of play.

Nigeria had conceded just two goals to this point, but under repeated pressure all game, they were unable to keep the Elephants out across the 90 minutes of action.

The win for Ivory Coast is an incredible achievement, having only squeaked through to the knockout stage as the final team to qualify, firing their coach in the process.

Interim boss Emerse Fae took over and led the side on an improbable run, securing the trophy in the end.—BBC

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