Haller and Kessie lead Ivory Coast to magical home AFCON title over Nigeria

Supported by the enthusiastic home crowd, the hosts made a confident start to the game. Haller, who had previously scored the winning goal in the semi-final against DR Congo, came close to connecting with Simon Adingra's dangerous cross.

In a display of skill, veteran Max Gradel attempted an overhead kick that narrowly missed the target, while Adingra forced a smart save from Stanley Nwabili.

Despite Nigeria being on the defensive, they managed to break the deadlock in the 38th minute against the run of play.

Captain William Troost-Ekong, who had previously scored in the 1-0 victory against Ivory Coast in the group stage, rose highest to head the ball into the net following a corner routine, giving the Super Eagles an unexpected lead at half-time.

With the majority of the 60,000-strong crowd cheering them on, Ivory Coast launched an early attack in the second half in search of an equalizer. Gradel's powerful shot was brilliantly blocked by Calvin Bassey after some impressive play from Adingra.

Odilon Kossounou then tested Nwabili with a long-range effort, resulting in a quality save from the goalkeeper. From the ensuing corner, the Elephants managed to level the score.

Franck Kessie headed the ball into the net unmarked at the far post, securing his second goal of the tournament and igniting the stadium with excitement after the hour-mark.

Haller came close to creating a perfect moment as the end of regulation time neared. Despite his battle with cancer, he almost put the hosts in the lead with a bicycle kick, but it narrowly missed the target after a well-executed setup by Adingra.

Nevertheless, the striker didn't have to wait for long to seize another opportunity and become a hero for his country. He skillfully poked home the winning goal from Adingra's impeccable cross, causing the Ivorian fans to erupt in wild celebration.

Nigeria put up a strong fight, but it was the Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder who shone brightly in Ivory Coast's attacking play. In his first major international tournament, he delivered an exceptional performance, playing a pivotal role in his team's success.

Despite a challenging group stage that nearly resulted in the Elephants' elimination, the night proved to be immensely rewarding, etching itself into the memories of every Ivorian for years to come.

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