Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have advanced to the semi-finals of the 2024 WAFU Zone B U-20 qualifiers, overcoming a challenging start to defeat Côte d’Ivoire 2-1 in their second group match on Thursday in Togo. The victory came after a tense match in which Nigeria had to come from behind to secure the much-needed win, keeping their hopes alive for a place in the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
After a 1-0 defeat in their opening fixture against Burkina Faso, the Flying Eagles entered the match against Côte d’Ivoire knowing that only a win would keep their campaign on track.
Côte d’Ivoire initially took the lead, putting the Nigerian side under immense pressure.
However, the Flying Eagles responded strongly, showing resilience and determination to turn the game around.
Nigeria’s equalizer came through Clinton Jephta, who found the back of the net with a well-placed effort to level the score.
Kparobo Arierhi then delivered the winning goal, ensuring Nigeria took all three points.
The win not only revived their hopes of progressing in the tournament but also reaffirmed their status as defending champions of the WAFU Zone B qualifiers.
Following the victory, the Flying Eagles have set their sights on Sunday’s semi-final clash against Niger Republic.
The match promises to be another intense encounter as Nigeria aims to continue their title defense and secure a spot in the final.
The team’s coach and players will be eager to build on their momentum, knowing that a place in the final would bring them one step closer to qualifying for the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations.
The WAFU Zone B qualifiers serve as a crucial pathway for teams to secure a place in the U-20 AFCON, with the top teams earning the opportunity to compete in the 2025 edition of the tournament.
While the host nation for the 2025 U-20 AFCON has yet to be determined, the stakes remain high for all participating teams, as a strong performance in the tournament will open the door to further international opportunities.
For Nigeria, advancing to the U-20 AFCON is just the first step.
The semi-finalists of the 2025 tournament will also earn the chance to represent Africa at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
With so much on the line, the Flying Eagles are focused on continuing their winning form as they look to secure their place on the global stage.
As Nigeria prepares for the semi-final against Niger Republic, fans and analysts will be watching closely, hoping the Flying Eagles can replicate their success from previous editions of the WAFU Zone B qualifiers and ultimately secure a place in the 2025 U-20 AFCON and beyond.
