Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have advanced to semi-final of the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), beating defending champions Senegal 3-1 on penalties.
Monday’s match ended barren in normal and extra-time, pushing the match to the spotkicks, where Nigeria emerged 3-1 winners.
That victory earned Nigeria a spot in the U-20 World Cup, billed for Chile later in the year.
Coach Aliyu Zubair’s boys could not break the Young Lions of Teranga’s defence in a feisty game at the Suez Canal Stadium in Egypt.
The Flying Eagles were undefeated in the group stages, earning five points.
But many were unconvinced by the side’s showing, especially after the draw with already-eliminated Kenya.
As the game unfolded on Monday, the West African giants failed to convert their chances. The extra time also did not result in a goal.
But in the penalty shootout, Coach Aliyu Zubair’s boys maintained their cool as Precious Benjamin, Emmanuel Chukwu, and Israel Ayuma scored their spot kicks.
Goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt was the hero after saving two penalties. Senegal failed to score their spotkicks as Pierre Dorival’s effort was saved, the same as Mame Mor Faye’s strike.
Ousmane Konaté also saw his penalty come off the crossbar.
Although Seydi Diouck scored his kick, it was a little too late for the Senegalese.
With the result, the Flying Eagles soared closer to a record-extending eight U-20 AFCON crown.
An excited Coach Zubairu was full of praise for his boys for beating the defending champions despite the pressure that came with the match.
“We prepared for all scenarios, including penalties. I’m proud of the boys for executing under pressure,” he said.
Nigeria will meet South Africa or DR Congo in the semi-final.
