Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have secured their place at the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Egypt, emerging as the first African nation to qualify following a hard-fought victory over defending champions Senegal on Monday.

The quarter-final match at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium in Ismailia ended goalless after 120 minutes and was decided by a penalty shootout. Goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt played a crucial role, saving two spot kicks and keeping the team in the game with a key save from Ibrahima Dieng in the 54th minute. Ousmane Konate’s miss in the shootout sealed Senegal’s exit and Nigeria’s progression.

The result came after a rallying call from Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, who urged the team to show improved spirit and character following their earlier performances.

The match saw early pressure from Senegal, with Dieng nearly capitalising on a dropped ball by Harcourt in the 27th minute, and later hitting the upright with a header. Nigeria regained composure towards the end of regulation time, creating chances through Divine Oliseh, Kparobo Arierhi, and substitute Precious Benjamin.

During extra time, Tahir Maigana tested Senegalese goalkeeper Mouhamed Sissokho with a long-range effort, and Israel Ayuma’s free kick required a quick save to keep the score level.

In the shootout, Nigeria gained the advantage when Harcourt saved Pierre Diatta Dorival’s opening kick. Goals from Precious Benjamin, Emmanuel Chukwu, and Israel Ayuma ensured Nigeria’s spot in the semi-finals and a ticket to the World Cup.

Reacting to the qualification, NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau said: “The ticket to the World Cup was the first objective and we have achieved that. The second objective is to win the trophy, and after congratulating the team for their effort, I have reminded them that the country is waiting for them to bring the trophy back home.”

The Flying Eagles will now face the winner of the South Africa vs DR Congo match, also played on Monday in Ismailia.