Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have secured their spot in the quarter-final of the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations after a thrilling 2-2 draw against Kenya in their final group match at the 30 June Stadium.
The Flying Eagles earned four points from their first two matches, edging out Tunisia 1-0 in their opening game before settling for a draw against Morocco. In contrast, Kenya came into the final group game without a win, having suffered defeats to both North African sides, despite managing to score three goals across those encounters.
Kenya maintained their scoring streak against Nigeria, taking the lead for the third consecutive match courtesy of a composed sixth-minute penalty from Kevin Wanganya. However, their advantage was short-lived as promising forward Kparobo Ariehi netted his first goal of the tournament in the 13th minute to bring Nigeria level.
Eager to reclaim their lead, Kenya brought on William Gitama in the second half, and the substitute made an immediate impact, converting a brilliant freekick in the 68th minute to put his side back in front.
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Although Kenya appeared to have the momentum, they were unable to hold onto their lead for a second time as substitute Rickson Theophilus Mendos won a penalty few minutes after the goal, which captain Daniel Bameyi calmly converted to restore parity once again.
Despite a late push to reclaim their lead, Kenya couldn’t break through Nigeria’s resolute defence for a third time and ultimately suffered their third straight defeat, bringing their tournament run to an end.
Elsewhere, Morocco confirmed their place in the quarter-finals after a 3-1 draw win over fellow North African side Tunisia at the Suez Canal Stadium, securing top spot in the group with seven points.
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