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Nigeria’s Flying Eagles held their nerve in a dramatic penalty shootout to defeat Senegal 3-1 and book their place in the semifinals of the U20 Africa Cup of Nations, as well as secure a spot at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, Footynaija.com reports.
After 120 gruelling minutes of goalless action, it was goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt who stole the spotlight with two superb saves in the shootout, while another Senegal effort struck the crossbar.
Spot kicks from Precious Benjamin, Emmanuel Chukwu, and Isaac Ayuma sealed a hard-fought victory for Nigeria.
Coach Aliyu Zubairu made two changes to his side from the 2-2 draw with Kenya, introducing Sulyman Olalekan Alabi and Bidemi Olalekan Amole.
The reshuffled team delivered a dominant first-half display, controlling possession and creating chances with swift, intelligent movement. But poor finishing let them down—Divine Oliseh and Kparobo Arierhi both missing clear opportunities.
Despite fading slightly in the second half, the Flying Eagles remained defensively sound. Daniel Bameyi and Emmanuel Chukwu marshalled the backline, while Harcourt stayed alert when called upon.
As the match moved into extra time, Nigeria pushed for a winner. Substitute Tahir Maigana saw a fierce shot spectacularly tipped wide by Senegal’s keeper Pape Sissokho, who later denied another goal-bound free-kick.
But it was Harcourt who had the final say, rising to the occasion in the shootout and ensuring Nigeria remained unbeaten in U20 AFCON quarterfinals.
This result not only keeps Nigeria’s title hopes alive but confirms their presence among the world’s elite youth teams in Chile later this year.
