The Flying Eagles overcame an early deficit to defeat the host nation, Niger, with a score of 3-1 in the semifinal of the WAFU B U20 Championship on Sunday night at Stade de Kégué.
Aliyu Zubairu made a single adjustment to the lineup that faced Ivory Coast, as defensive midfielder Sabiu Ibrahim was sidelined due to injury, leading to the inclusion of Suleyman from El Kanemi Warriors.
Niger took an early lead in the 9th minute with a powerful shot from outside the box and nearly extended their advantage in the 33rd minute, but the Flying Eagles were saved by the crossbar.
Nigeria equalized through a well-executed play, culminating in a precise shot from Clinton Jephta.
Jephta then netted Nigeria’s second goal of the evening, finishing off a low cross with a clean strike.
Niger nearly leveled the score with a threatening cross into the box, but no player was available to convert the opportunity.
The Flying Eagles concluded the match with a spectacular goal from within the penalty area.
With this victory, Nigeria has secured a spot in the final against Ghana and has also qualified for the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations.
