Nigeria’s Flying Eagles are through to the semi-final of the U20 AFCON and have qualified automatically for the 2025 U20 World Cup after defeating defending champions Senegal on penalties at the Suez Canal Stadium on Monday.
Both teams finished second in their respective groups, with Nigeria earning five points from a win over Tunisia and draws with Morocco and Kenya. Senegal, on the other hand, secured four points after drawing with the Central African Republic, losing to Ghana, and defeating DR Congo.
The Flying Eagles began the match on the front foot, dominating possession but unable to capitalise on their opportunities. Senegal, meanwhile, stood firm at the back, effectively holding off Nigeria’s attacks while remaining a threat going forward.
Much like the opening 45 minutes, the second half also failed to produce a goal, as both teams continued to battle evenly without finding a breakthrough. Despite creating a few chances, neither side was able to convert, and with the deadlock unbroken at the end of regulation time, the match headed into extra time.
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Despite both teams’ efforts, the game remained goalless after 30 minutes of extra time, leading to a penalty shootout to decide the winner of the quarter-final clash.
Goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt emerged as the hero during the penalty shootout, delivering two crucial saves from Senegal’s initial three attempts. The Flying Eagles capitalised on this advantage by converting three of their own penalties, establishing a 3-1 lead.
Senegal then failed to convert their fourth spot-kick, sealing Nigeria’s progression to the AFCON semi-final and automatic qualification to the U20 World Cup in Chile.
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles will now await the outcome of the quarter-final match between South Africa and DR Congo later today to determine their semi-final opponent, as they continue to push toward claiming their eighth AFCON title.
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