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Ivory Coast Stun Nigeria to Win AFCON 2023
Abidjan erupted in ecstasy on Sunday night as Ivory Coast stormed back from a goal down to defeat Nigeria 2-1 in the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, securing their third continental crown.
Sebastien Haller, the hero of the hour, flicked home the winning goal with just nine minutes remaining, capping a remarkable turnaround for the Elephants under interim manager Emerse Fae. Nigeria, chasing a record-extending fourth title, looked set for glory after William Troost-Ekong’s first-half header. However, Franck Kessie’s equalizer just past the hour mark set the stage for Haller’s late heroics.
The victory marked a meteoric rise for Ivory Coast, who stared elimination in the face after two group-stage defeats and the departure of their coach. Fae, stepping into the breach, orchestrated a thrilling knockout run, including last-gasp equalizers against Senegal and Mali. Their triumph also made them the first tournament hosts to lift the trophy since Egypt in 2006.
Haller, once again the talisman, now boasts the winner’s medal to accompany his semi-final strike against DR Congo. The victory brought $7 million in prize money for the Elephants, while the Super Eagles settled for $4 million.
Liberia Appoints First Female Defense Minister
Liberian President Joseph Boakai Tuesday appointed retired Brigadier General Geraldine George as the acting Minister of Defense, in a historic move marking the first time a woman holds the position. This comes after widespread protests by soldiers’ wives over concerns about poor living conditions and low wages, which led to the resignation of the previous minister.
George, a military veteran who rose through the ranks after joining the army in 2006 following the civil war, brings diverse experience to the role. She previously served as Deputy Chief of Staff for six years and was recently appointed Deputy for Administration in the Defense Ministry by President Boakai.
However, her appointment as acting minister raises questions about its temporary nature. Some speculate it could be a strategic move to assess her performance before a permanent decision, while others suggest political considerations might be at play.
This development follows the resignation of former Defense Minister Prince Charles Johnson III, whose brief tenure was marred by protests led by soldiers’ wives. They blamed him, as the former Chief of Staff, for the military’s low wages and inadequate living conditions. The protests escalated with roadblocks set up around the capital, forcing the cancellation of National Army Day celebrations.
President Boakai, who took office after a close-fought election, faces the challenge of ensuring stability and addressing the concerns of the armed forces.
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