Nigeria’s U-20 team has advanced to the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations after defeating reigning champions Senegal 3-1 in a tense penalty shootout on Monday.
With no goals scored after regulation and extra time, the quarter-final clash was settled from the spot.
Nigeria converted three of their penalties while Senegal missed two and hit the bar once, ending their title defence.
The Flying Eagles, who topped their group with five points, faced scrutiny for their underwhelming performances but managed to hold off a resilient Senegalese side in a fiercely contested encounter at Egypt’s Suez Canal Stadium.
Despite dominating phases of the match, Nigeria failed to break through the Young Lions of Teranga’s strong backline. But when it came to penalties, Coach Zubairu’s squad delivered.
Nigeria’s successful kicks came from Precious Benjamin, Emmanuel Chukwu, and Israel Ayuma, while goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt became the standout performer by saving crucial penalties.
Senegal’s Pierre Dorival and Mame Mor Faye were denied, and Ousmane Konaté’s effort bounced off the crossbar. Though Seydi Diouck found the net, it was not enough to rescue his team.
Coach Zubair praised his players for rising to the occasion. “We were ready for this moment. I commend the team for their discipline and mental strength,” he said.
With the victory, Nigeria also punched their ticket to the U-20 World Cup in Chile and inched closer to winning a record-extending eighth continental title. They await the winner of South Africa vs DR Congo in the next round.