Nigeria’s Flying Eagles booked their place in the semi-finals of the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations after edging defending Champions Senegal 3-1 on penalties, following a tense goalless draw after extra time at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia.
Having been beaten 1-0 by Senegal in the group stage of the previous edition, Nigeria exacted a measure of revenge with a composed and disciplined performance in Monday’s quarter-final clash.
The victory also secures their qualification for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile later this year.
Head coach Aliyu Zubairu made two changes from the team that drew 2-2 with Kenya, handing starts to Sulyman Olalekan Alabi and Bidemi Olalekan Amole in place of Kpangu and Cletus.
The Flying Eagles controlled proceedings with intelligent movement, quick passing, and slick transitions, but their profligacy in front of goal kept the match level at the break.
Divine Oliseh squandered two clear-cut chances, firing tamely at the goalkeeper on both occasions, while Kparobo Arierhi also missed a couple of opportunities.
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Fatigue began to show in the second half, and the tempo dropped as Senegal grew into the contest. Nigeria still carved out opportunities, most notably when Oliseh failed to convert a one-on-one in the 75th minute.
Benjamin blazed a good chance over the bar early in the first half of extra time, while Arierhi tried his luck from distance but failed to hit the target. Senegal responded with a close header from Serigne Diouf that drifted narrowly wide.
Nigerian substitute Tahir Maigana nearly broke the deadlock with a powerful effort that was brilliantly saved by Senegal goalkeeper Pape Sissokho.
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Benjamin, Chukwu and Ayuma all converted their spot-kicks, while goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt made two crucial saves to hand Nigeria a 3-1 shootout win.
The Flying Eagles now advance to the semi-finals of the U-20 AFCON and will also take part in the upcoming FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
