AFCON Knockout Stages Began with Shock Nigerian Exit!

AFCON Knockout Stages Began with Shock Nigerian Exit! The competition entered into it’s last 16 yesterday in Cameroon.

Nigeria lost 1-0 to Tunisia in their AFCON knockout match. This has been one of the biggest shocks of the competition thus far.

The Super Eagles were the big favourites to win the entire tournament. So, when they headed into the match to face Tunisia, they were expected to seal their passage into the quarterfinals.

Especially when considering how both nations made it to the last 16. Nigeria topped a group which had Egypt, spearheaded by the mighty Mohamed Salah.

Tunisia on the other hand struggled to make it out of their group. The difference in quality players is something which also gave Nigeria the edge going into the game.

However, things did not pan out that way as Nigeria failed to fully dominate the North Africans. This meant that they could not create enough clear-cut chance, which always kept Tunisia in the game.

The “minnows” scored early in the second half and kept their lead throughout the match. They will face Burkina Faso in the last 8.

Burkina Faso defeated Gabon 7-6 on penalties to make it to the quarterfinals. This was the long route to qualification though.

The Burkinabe created an influx of chances but could only score one goal throughout the match. This gave Gabon the opportunity to equalise in the dying embers of the game.

The better team eventually won, on penalties though.

Sunday, 23 January 2021, Round of 16:

Nigeria 0:1 Tunisia

Burkina Faso 1:1 Gabon (Burkina Faso win 7-6 on penalties). AFCON Knockout Stages Began with Shock Nigerian Exit!