Nigeria’s Flying Eagles on Wednesday defeated hosts Côte d’Ivoire 4-3 on penalties to book a place in the final of the WAFU B U-20 Championship after an enthralling 2-2 draw in the semi-final.
The victory sends the Flying Eagles into the final of the WAFU B U-20 AFCON Qualifying Tournament. A win in the final will secure Nigeria’s qualification for the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations and keep alive their hopes of reaching the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
Nigeria endured a difficult first half and went into the break trailing after the hosts took the lead. However, the Flying Eagles returned with renewed determination in the second half.
The seven-time African champions fought back to level the score before taking the lead late in the game. Côte d’Ivoire, however, produced a dramatic equaliser deep into extra time to make it 2-2 and send the contest to a penalty shootout.
In the shootout, Nigeria kept their composure, converting four of their spot-kicks to emerge 4-3 winners. The Flying Eagles’ goalkeeper proved to be the hero, making two crucial saves to seal the victory and send his side into the final.
It was a gripping encounter that showcased the Flying Eagles’ resilience, determination and fighting spirit as they moved one step closer to qualifying for the U-20 AFCON and keeping their FIFA U-20 World Cup dream alive.
