The Flying Eagles, yesterday, came from a goal down to beat hosts, Cote d’Ivoire, 4-3 on penalties to qualify for the WAFU U-20 Championship final following the 2-2 ending to the pulsating semifinal game. The win gives Nigeria the opportunity to fight for the FIFA U-20 World Cup ticket at the African U-20 Cup of Nations next year.

Cote d’Ivoire took the lead in the 18th minute through Namory Keita, but Nigeria replied in the 59th minute when Skipper Habila Simeon rose highest to nod in a pull-out.

Despite several chances created by both sides, no further goal came, and the game went into extra time at 1-1. Extra time brought more drama. Aliyu Abubakar put the Flying Eagles ahead 2-1 in the third minute of the first period of extra time. Gift Subi almost made it 3-1 in the 100th minute after a brilliant solo run, but his shot went wide. Côte d’Ivoire responded immediately and levelled it at 2-2 before the end of the first half of extra time.

The scoreline remained 2-2 at the end of extra time, forcing the tie to penalties. From the spot, the Flying Eagles held their nerve and won 4-3. The victory sends Nigeria through to the final of the 2026 WAFU B U-20 Championship, where they will aim to retain the trophy and thus qualify for next year’s U-20 Africa Cup of Nations.