Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have made a strong comeback, securing a crucial 2-1 victory over Côte d’Ivoire in their final group game of the WAFU B U20 Championship held in Lome, Togo.
This win propels the seven-time African champions into the semifinals, where they will face Niger Republic for a chance to reach the final and secure a spot in the U20 Africa Cup of Nations.
After suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Burkina Faso in their opening match, the pressure was on the Flying Eagles to deliver a winning performance to avoid an early exit from the tournament.
Head coach Aliyu Zubair’s squad rose to the occasion, with goals from Clinton Jephta and Kparobo Arierhi ensuring the much-needed victory against the Young Elephants of Côte d’Ivoire.
The goals from Jephta and Arierhi were enough to cancel out Côte d’Ivoire’s lone strike, sealing Nigeria’s position in the semifinals as Group B winners. This result also allowed Côte d’Ivoire to progress as group runners-up, while Burkina Faso faced elimination.
Next, the Flying Eagles will take on Niger Republic in a semifinal clash on Sunday. With high stakes at play, a victory will not only secure a place in the final but also guarantee qualification for the U20 AFCON.
The Nigerian side will need to be at their best to retain their title and continue their successful campaign in the tournament.
