AFCON 2025
Nigeria’s U20 men’s national team, the Flying Eagles, produced a scintillating second-half performance to overpower their Benin Republic counterparts 4-1 and book a place in the semifinals of the WAFU B U20 Boys Tournament on Sunday evening in Accra.
Despite falling behind early, Coach Aliyu Zubairu’s side rallied back in style, with goals from Mohammed Abdullahi, Ezekiel Kpangu, Imrana Mohammed, and Abdulahi Majid securing a deserved victory in their final group-stage fixture.
The Junior Cheetahs of Benin started on the front foot and took the lead in the 24th minute through Junior Olugbade, who curled a superb free-kick into the bottom corner. The Flying Eagles responded with composure and found the equaliser before halftime, courtesy of Mohammed Abdullahi.
After the break, the Nigerian team emerged with renewed determination and quickly took control of the match. A fluid attacking move culminated in Kpangu calmly slotting home to give Nigeria a 2-1 advantage.
Imrana Mohammed then added a third, weaving through the Benin defence before finishing clinically. As the Flying Eagles continued to dominate, Imrana turned provider, setting up Abdulahi Majid for a spectacular long-range strike that sealed the comprehensive win.Defender Odinaka Okoro was named Man of the Match for his commanding presence and defensive contributions.
With the result, Nigeria advance to the semifinals of the tournament and will await their next opponent from the other group.
