Nigeria’s Under-20 national team, the Flying Eagles, demonstrated remarkable resilience in a compelling 3-1 victory over Niger Republic at Lomé’s Stade de Kegue on Sunday, clinching both a spot in the WAFU B U20 Championship final and qualification for the 2025 Africa U20 Cup of Nations.
The seven-time African champions, under Coach Aliyu Zubairu’s guidance, showed exceptional character after conceding an early goal in the ninth minute.
Clinton Jephta emerged as the hero of the day, netting a crucial equalizer in the 35th minute with a spectacular long-range effort, following an intricate passing sequence involving Kparobo Arierhi, Abba Maigari, and Nasiru Salihu.
Jephta wasn’t finished, as he put Nigeria ahead 13 minutes into the second half.
The victory was sealed in dramatic fashion when Olalekan Alonge added a third goal in stoppage time, while goalkeeper Ifeanyi Harcourt’s outstanding saves throughout the match proved vital in maintaining Nigeria’s advantage.
Nigeria Football Federation President Ibrahim Musa Gusau expressed confidence in the team’s capabilities, stating,
“We believe they have what it takes to go all the way and successfully defend their title against Ghana.”
The team’s journey has been bolstered by substantial financial support from various quarters. Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin contributed N2 million, while Super Eagles midfielder and Flying Eagles alumnus Wilfred Ndidi made a generous N5 million donation.
Further financial backing came from several prominent figures, including Frank Peters, Chairman of Crystal Sapphire Ltd, who donated N1.5 million with additional incentives promised. Victor Apugo pledged N1 million with a N2 million bonus offer, while Mavlon FC Chairman Barrister Kenneth Agadugba committed N2 million, promising an additional N12 million should the team reach the final.
The support extended to anonymous contributions, with a senior NFF staff member and an unnamed donor providing N1 million and N1.5 million respectively.
The victory marks a significant milestone in the Flying Eagles’ campaign to defend their title, which they claimed in Niamey two years ago.
The team now faces Ghana in Wednesday’s final, carrying the hopes of millions of Nigerians as they aim to retain their championship status.
