Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have booked their spot in the final of the WAFU B U-20 Championship after edging out Niger Republic in a nail-biting semi-final decided by penalties.
The tense encounter, held in Ghana, saw Nigeria dominate possession for large spells but struggle to find a breakthrough against a resolute and disciplined Nigerien backline.
Despite several chances, the match ended goalless in regulation time.
In line with the tournament rules, the game proceeded directly to a penalty shootout, no extra time required.
It was here that Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Ebenezer Harcourt, stepped up in heroic fashion.
Harcourt saved one of the two penalties missed by Niger Republic, sealing a 4-2 shootout win for Nigeria and earning himself the Man of the Match award.
The Flying Eagles will now turn their attention to the championship final, where they are set to face Côte d’Ivoire.
The Young Elephants secured their own place in the final after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over hosts Ghana in the second semi-final.
With a showdown against a confident Ivorian side on the horizon, Nigeria will aim to maintain their composure and build on Harcourt’s heroics as they chase regional glory.
