The Flying Eagles of Nigeria came from behind to defeat Cote d’Ivoire 2-1, qualifying for the semi-finals of the WAFU B U20 Championship.
- Burkina Faso’s Young Etalons were eliminated due to an inferior goal difference compared to Nigeria and Cote d’Ivoire.
- All three teams in Group B finished with three points each, with Nigeria scoring two goals and conceding two, the same as the Ivorians.
- Burkina Faso managed to score one goal and conceded one, having beaten Nigeria and lost to Cote d’Ivoire 1-0.
- The victory allows Aliyu Zubair’s side to continue their pursuit of defending their title, which they won in Niamey two years ago.
- The first half at the Municipal Stadium ended scoreless, with Bidemi Amole’s long-range shot going wide and striker Kparobo’s powerful effort saved by the Ivorian goalkeeper.
- In the 39th minute, Nigeria’s appeal for a penalty was turned down by the referee, but the Flying Eagles pressed on, with Amole’s shot hitting the crossbar as the half concluded.
- The second half saw the Flying Eagles display increased urgency in their play.
- Côte d’Ivoire had a goal ruled out in the 48th minute, while Nigeria’s Kparobo was denied by the goalkeeper in the 53rd minute, with Amole coming close soon after.
- The Ivorians broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute, but Clinton Jephta quickly equalized for Nigeria.
Kparobo Arierhi scored the winning goal, securing a 2-1 victory for the Flying Eagles.
- Coach Aliyu Zubairu praised the team’s resilience and determination to reach the semi-finals, stating, “We showed resilience and determination. We’re delighted with the victory and look forward to the semi-finals.”
- Nigeria will face Niger Republic in the semi-finals scheduled for Saturday.
