Flying Eagles Soar to U-20 AFCON Semis, Clinch World Cup Slot

Share:

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles are through to the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final after edging defending champions Senegal 3-1 on penalties in their quarter-final encounter at the Suez Canal stadium in Ismailia, Egypt. 

There was little to separate both teams during regulation time in terms of goalscoring action, although Cheikh Thiam came close to finding the breakthrough for the Junior Teranga Lions in the 42nd minute with a header that came off the post. 

Flying Eagles number one Ebenezer Harcourt also made a superb stop in the 53rd minute to deny the Senegalese team from breaking the deadlock. The coach Aliyu Zubairu-led Nigeria had half-chances, but Senegal shot-stopper Mouhamed Sissokho made several saves to keep the Flying Eagles at bay.

Following a goalless affair at the end of 90 minutes, a further 30 minutes of extra-time were played in a bid to determine the winner albeit to no avail, with a penalty shootout needed at the end of the day.

During the ensuing shootout, Nigeria’s trio of Precious Benjamin, Israel Ayuma, and Emmanuel Chukwu all converted their spot-kicks, while goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt stood his ground as he saved two penalties from the Senegalese.

Senegal’s spot takers were not so lucky, as the duo of Pierre Dorival and Mame Mor Faye failed to beat Harcourt, while Ousmane Konate’s effort rattled the crossbar. Their only successful penalty came via Seydi Diouck, which was insufficient to see them through.

Nigeria remain unbeaten at the U-20 AFCON in Egypt, and are on course to win a record extending eighth continental title, while Senegal suffered their first defeat in a knockout match at the competition since 2017.

The result sees Nigeria clinch a ticket to the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in Chile.

Share:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

join our community

Join our community at SportsDey and get the best sports content delivered straight to you.