AFCON 2025
The Flying Eagles of Nigeria are through to the last four of the ongoing Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.
Goalkeeper Ebenezer put up a fantastic display in between the sticks and during the penalty shootout as the Flying Eagles knocked out defending champions Senegal.
The Sporting Lagos goalkeeper made two penalty saves during the shootout as Aliyu Zubairu’s boys qualified for the semi-finals and the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Chile later in the year.
It was a game of missed opportunities and goalkeeping heroics as both sides struggled to find the back of the net on multiple occasions in regular time and extra time.
Substitute Tahir Maigana powered a ferocious left-footed strike towards goal in extra time, but Mohammed Sissokho made a stunning save to deny the Flying Eagles striker.
Senegal almost stole a late winner, but the attacker failed to direct his header towards goal from a free-kick as the header sailed narrowly wide.
Precious Benjamin, Emmanuel Chukwu, and Isreal Ayuma showed great composure as they converted their spot kicks, while only Seydi Diouck converted his penalty kick as three of his teammates missed theirs.
Flying Eagles progressed to the last four 3-1 on penalties, as they await the winner between South Africa and DR Congo for a place in the final.
