AFCON 2025
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles booked their spot in the 2025 WAFU Zone B U20 Championship final after a hard‑fought, goalless draw against Niger Republic at Cape Coast Stadium on Sunday, July 20.
The match remained scoreless through 90 minutes, as Nigeria dominated possession and carved out several chances, including three off‑target efforts in the first half, while Niger’s disciplined defence stayed resolute.
In goal, Ebenezer Harcourt was alert, though Niger managed no shots on target. Nigeria intensified their attacks in the second half but were repeatedly repelled by a compact Nigerien backline that dedicated seven defenders to containment.
With no extra time in this tournament’s format, the game proceeded directly to a penalty shootout. Harcourt gave Nigeria an early boost with a penalty save. Nigeria’s defender Tahir Maigana missed one of their spot‑kicks, but the team maintained composure overall.
The Flying Eagles converted four out of five spot‑kicks, while Niger managed just three, clinching a 4–3 shootout win.
This hard‑earned victory sends Nigeria into the final, where they will face the winner of the semi‑final clash between Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire. A place in the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations is also at stake for the champions of this tournament.
