Nigeria’s U-20 men’s football team, the Flying Eagles, have reached the final of the WAFU B U-20 tournament after beating Niger Republic 4-3 on penalties following a 0-0 draw in regulation time.
Throughout the match, the Flying Eagles exhibited determination but faced challenges in converting several scoring opportunities. On the other hand, the Nigeriens adopted a strong defensive stance.
The first half saw the Flying Eagles record three shots off target, while the opponents did not have any sight of the Nigerian goal. In the second half, the Cup holders stepped up their attacking efforts, showcasing robust intent to break an organised Nigerien defence.
With the encounter still goalless after regulation time, the teams moved to a penalty shootout. The Nigerien side saw their first saved by Nigerian goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt. Similarly, Nigerian defender Tahir Maigana missed his kick.
- Read more: WAFU B U-20: Flying Eagles To Face Ghana
However, the Flying Eagles displayed resilience and confidence in the shootout, successfully converting four of their penalties while Niger Republic managed to score only two.
The result means the Flying Eagles are in the final of the competition and will confront the winner of the second semi final, between Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, in the final.
Flying Eagles goalkeeper Harcourt was named man-of-the-match for his impressive display in the encounter.
The Flying Eagles will now prepare to face Côte d’Ivoire in the final, aiming to clinch the WAFU B U-20 title. The Ivorians beat the Ghana U-20 team 2-1 to advance to the final,
Fans across Nigeria will be eagerly anticipating the final match, hoping to see their young stars lift the trophy and continue their impressive run in the tournament.