TWO second half goals saw Joe Aribo's Nigeria fall to a 2-1 defeat against Ivory Coast in the Africa Cup of Nations final on Sunday evening.
Saints midfielder Aribo was named on the bench alongside loaned out forward Paul Onuachu for the final at Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan.
Former Watford defender William Troost-Ekong gave the Super Eagles the lead just before the break with their first effort on goal.
WOW! Ivory Coast have turned it around! 🔄
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) February 11, 2024
Sébastien Haller guides it home with a sumptuous touch! 👏 pic.twitter.com/jWJXoMb1LB
Franck Kessie pulled the tournament hosts back on level terms from a set piece before Sebastien Haller produced a brilliant flick to put Ivory Coast ahead with eight regular minutes remaining.
Aribo was brought on by Nigeria's coach José Peseiro in an attempt to turn things around late on, but Emerse Fae's side held on to win their third AFCON crown.
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