The Flying Eagles of Nigeria are set to take on the Teranga Cubs of Senegal in the quarterfinals of the ongoing U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Cairo, Egypt on Monday, May 12, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria booked their place among the last eight after gathering five points in the group stage courtesy of a win on opening day against Tunisia and two draws against Morocco and Kenya respectively to finish second in Group B.
Meanwhile, Senegal secured safe passage into the knockout rounds with only four points to their name after recording a win, a draw and a defeat.
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Ahead of this potentially enthralling encounter, Footynaija.com takes a look at how the Flying Eagles have fared against their Western neighbours in previous games.
A rivalry forged in 2015
Nigeria and Senegal first met at this level of the game during the 2015 CAF African Youth Championships held in Senegal. Both sides faced off in the group stage with the Flying Eagles emerging 3-1 victors from that encounter.
The Flying Eagles and the Teranga Cubs locked horns again in that same tournament, although this time as finalists. Nigeria once again prevailed with a 1-0 win to emerge champions over the hosts.
Senegal’s recent dominance
Since 2015, the Flying Eagles and the Teranga Cubs have clashed on six occasions and this rivalry has been bossed by the latter in recent meetings with their most recent encounter at the All Africa Games last year ending in a 3-2 defeat for Nigeria.
The Flying Eagles, who have come out second best in each of their last four meetings with the Teranga Cubs, will be looking to put an end to this losing streak against their fellow West Africans.
What’s at stake?
The winners of this tie will not only be one step closer to tasting glory in this tournament, they will also book a place in the FIFA U20 World Cup set to take place in Chile later this year.
With a spot at the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile and a chance to edge closer to continental glory hanging in the balance, both sides will head into Monday’s clash knowing that more than just bragging rights are on the line.
Nevertheless, Nigeria will look to rewrite the recent narrative and reclaim dominance, while Senegal will aim to reinforce their supremacy. All looks set for an absolutely captivating encounter when the curtains come down on Monday.
