By Emily Goddard

Libya have claimed their first African Nations Championship title ©AFP/Getty ImagesFebruary 1 - Libya have claimed their first African Nations Championship win by beating favourites Ghana 4-3 on penalties.

The final of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) tournament ended with the scoreboard tied at 0-0 after extra time at the Cape Town Stadium in South Africa before both team's goalkeepers saved two penalties to tie the first five kicks at 3-3 and trigger a sudden death.

Ahmed El Trbi scored the sixth penalty for Libya before Joshua Tijani missed his for Ghana to give Libya - which had originally been scheduled to host the competition only to lose it due to the civil unrest in the country - the continental title.

Libya coach Javier Clement said the win means a lot to the nation, particularly in terms of boosting social stability as it continues to suffer the conflict it has faced since the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in October 2011.

Joshua Tijani's missed penalty kick secured the continental title for Libya ©AFP/Getty ImagesJoshua Tijani's missed penalty kick secured the continental title for Libya ©AFP/Getty Images


"This tournament really gave a good platform to up-and-coming young players," he said.

"Most young players really got a massive foundation from this tournament.

"This win is good for Libyan people, for the growth of the sport and social stability.

"I have put a lot of passion in this team, they have played with enthusiasm and pride and they fully deserved this trophy.

"I hope winning this trophy has been massive for Libya and its people.

"I want to give credit for winning this trophy to the hard-work of the players.

"They have gained a lot of experience from this tournament."

The match was played in front of a 17,000-strong crowd, which included CAF President Issa Hayatou and FIFA President Sepp Blatter.

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