The Flying Eagles of Nigeria have secured their spot in the 2025 U-20 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) following a dramatic 3-1 victory over Niger Republic in the semi-final of the WAFU B U-20 Championship on Sunday night at the Stade Kegue in Lome, Togo.
Despite going a goal down early in the match, the Flying Eagles displayed resilience and turned the tide in their favor, coming from behind to earn the crucial win. Niger Republic stunned Nigeria with an early goal within the opening 10 minutes, but the Eagles kept their composure and gradually took control of the game.
In the 35th minute, Nigeria’s Clinton Jephta equalized with a powerful shot from outside the box, sending the team into halftime with momentum. Jephta then doubled his tally immediately after the second half began, putting Nigeria ahead.
Olalekan Alonge further cemented Nigeria’s lead with a well-taken goal later in the game, securing the 3-1 victory and a spot in the final of the WAFU B U-20 Championship.
The Flying Eagles will now face Ghana in the final on Wednesday, where both teams have already qualified for the 2025 U-20 AFCON, as the tournament serves as the qualifying event. Only the finalists from the WAFU B championship earn tickets to the U-20 AFCON.
The 2025 U-20 AFCON will also act as the African qualifiers for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, with the top four teams automatically earning their place in the global competition.
