Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have booked a place in the semi-finals of the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over title holders Senegal.
After a goalless 120 minutes at the Suez Canal Stadium in Egypt, the match went to penalties, where Nigeria triumphed 3-1.
This hard-fought win also guaranteed the West African side’s qualification for the upcoming U-20 World Cup in Chile.
Despite their unbeaten run in the group stage, Nigeria had drawn criticism for their lacklustre performances, especially in their tie against Kenya.
And in this quarter-final clash, they once again struggled to find the back of the net, missing key chances during regular and extra time.
However, during the shootout, the Flying Eagles held their nerve. Goals from Precious Benjamin, Emmanuel Chukwu, and Israel Ayuma proved decisive.
Goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt was instrumental, saving two of Senegal’s spot kicks and watching another crash off the woodwork.
Only Seydi Diouck converted for the Senegalese, whose title defence came to a sudden halt.
Coach Aliyu Zubair expressed pride in his team’s composure, saying, “We prepared for this situation, and I’m proud of the boys for staying focused under pressure.”
Nigeria will now face either South Africa or DR Congo in the semi-finals as they aim for their eighth U-20 AFCON title.