The Flying Eagles of Nigeria have secured a spot in the semi-finals of the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, defeating defending champions Senegal 3-1 in a penalty shootout.
The match ended goalless after regulation and extra time at the Suez Canal Stadium.
Both teams created scoring chances but failed to break the deadlock in 120 minutes of action. Senegal’s goalkeeper Mouhamed Sissokho made crucial saves against Nigeria’s Kparobo Arierhi and Divine Oliseh, while Senegal’s Cheikh Thiam hit the post in the 42nd minute. Nigeria’s tactical substitutions added attacking impetus late in the match.
The Flying Eagles maintained their composure in the shootout, with Precious Benjamin, Emmanuel Chukwu, and Israel Ayuma converting their spot kicks.
Senegal faltered under pressure, with Pierre Dorival’s effort saved and Mame Mor Faye’s denied.
Ousmane Konaté’s attempt crashed off the crossbar, and Seydi Diouck’s penalty was the only one Senegal managed to score.
Nigeria’s head coach, Aliyu Zubairu, praised his team’s resilience, saying, “We prepared for all scenarios, including penalties.
”I’m proud of the boys for executing under pressure.” The victory also earned Nigeria a spot in the U-20 World Cup, scheduled for Chile from September 27 to October 19.
The Flying Eagles now advance to the semi-finals, where they will look to maintain their record of never losing a semi-final tie in this competition.
The four semi-finalists from the U-20 AFCON will automatically qualify to represent Africa at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
