Sunday Mba's superb goal was enough to hand Nigeria a 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso and their third Africa Cup of Nations title.
It was Nigeria's first final since losing to Cameroon on penalties in 2000, but they were hot favourites ahead of the match against the Stallions due to their 12-game unbeaten record.
The Super Eagles started brightly and they made the breakthrough just before half-time with an impressive volley from Mba.
After some good build-up play, Victor Moses' shot was blocked and looped up to Mba on the edge of the box.
In three swift motions, Mba controlled the ball, chipped it over Mohamed Koffi and then volleyed across goalkeeper Daouda Diakité and into the far right corner.
It was a win that was fully deserved as Nigeria comfortably beat a tired-looking Burkina Faso, who struggled to make an impact in their maiden final appearance.
"I'm very happy," Mba told Eurosport after the match. "I don't know what to say, but I'm just happy."
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| Nigeria player Sunday Mba celebrates his winning goal against Burkina Faso with his teammates Photo: Gallo Images/Getty Images |
It was Nigeria's first final since losing to Cameroon on penalties in 2000, but they were hot favourites ahead of the match against the Stallions due to their 12-game unbeaten record.
The Super Eagles started brightly and they made the breakthrough just before half-time with an impressive volley from Mba.
After some good build-up play, Victor Moses' shot was blocked and looped up to Mba on the edge of the box.
In three swift motions, Mba controlled the ball, chipped it over Mohamed Koffi and then volleyed across goalkeeper Daouda Diakité and into the far right corner.
It was a win that was fully deserved as Nigeria comfortably beat a tired-looking Burkina Faso, who struggled to make an impact in their maiden final appearance.
"I'm very happy," Mba told Eurosport after the match. "I don't know what to say, but I'm just happy."
