Seven-time African champions, the Flying Eagles of Nigeria, booked their place in the final of the 2026 WAFU B U20 Championship after yesterday’s dramatic 4-3 penalty shootout victory over host nation Côte d’Ivoire.
The pulsating semi-final encounter ended 2-2 after extra time, making the penalty shootout inevitable.
The hosts, who started on the front foot and controlled the tempo from kickoff, came close to an early opener in both the 12th and 14th minutes.
However, Flying Eagles goalkeeper Clinton Lawani remained alert and kept Nigeria in the game.
The pressure eventually told in the 16th minute when Côte d’Ivoire’s Kaita slotted home to give the hosts a 1-0 lead.
The Flying Eagles pushed for an equalizer before half-time with renewed urgency, but the Ivorian defense held firm to take their narrow advantage into the break.
The breakthrough for Nigeria finally arrived in the 67th minute when Captain Habila Simeon rose highest to nod in a cross, leveling the score at 1-1.
Despite several chances created by both sides, neither team could find a winner in regulation, sending the match into extra time.
Aliyu Abubakar put the Flying Eagles ahead 2-1 in the third minute of extra time, but Côte d’Ivoire responded immediately, leveling the tie at 2-2 before the end of the first period of extra time.
During the shootout, the Flying Eagles held their nerve from the spot to secure a 4-3 victory.
The hard-fought win sends Nigeria through to the final of the 2026 WAFU B U20 Championship, where they will aim to retain their trophy and secure qualification for next year’s U20 Africa Cup of Nations.