Moses parts the way for Nigeria into the last eight

Nigerian Victor Moses scores a brace to see the Super Eagles through to the last eight

Chelsea forward Victor Moses struck twice in similar fashion to send Nigeria into the quarterfinals of the ongoing 2013 AFCON taking place in South Africa.

The first half saw a spirited Nigerian team taking the earlier initiative but lack of marksmanship and conviction robbed the Super eagles of the chances they created. The Ethiopian’s gradually settled in and grew in confidence to see out a barren first half.

 Nigeria needing a win to progress, regardless of the other Group C match between defending champion Zambia and tournament rookies Burkina Faso injected some pace into the game, seeking a quick respite by substituting under performing Ikechukwu Uche for Ahmed Musa but the options continued to be limited for the Stephen Keshi tutored side.

Moses struck late, twice from the penalty spot after being hacked down on both occasions in the Ethiopian penalty box. The Walya Antelopes of Ethiopia ended the match with ten men after their keeper received his marching order from a second yellow card.

With the result, the Super Eagles of Nigeria qualify in second place alongside Group leaders Burkina Faso who have a superior goal’s difference.  Zambia becomes the first defending champions since 1992 when Algeria failed to qualify not to progress beyond the group stage.

Nigeria will now play Group D winners Cote D’Ivoire on Sunday in a West African quarterfinal which will see John Mikel Obi reunite with former Chelsea teammate Didier Drogba.

An elated Nigeria coach had the following to say. “This is a victory for Nigerians wherever they are in the world. This is a time for celebration”

He added, “Now we face title favourites Ivory Coast in the quarterfinals and there will be no second chance for either side. I have a game plan but, with respect, that is for the players and not for you guys.”