Nigeria’s U20 national team, the Flying Eagles, are set for a high-stakes clash against Cote d’Ivoire in the final of the WAFU B U20 Boys Tournament on Wednesday, 23 July, at the Centre of Excellence in Prampram, Ghana.
The Ivorians, dubbed the Young Elephants, have been the standout team of the tournament, recording four straight wins. They began with a 2-1 victory over Burkina Faso, followed by narrow wins against Niger Republic and Togo. Their semi-final performance saw them overturn a deficit to defeat hosts Ghana 2-1, underlining their quality and resolve.
Nigeria’s path to the final has been marked by determination and attacking flair. After a 1-1 draw with Ghana in their opening match — with Mohammed Abdullahi netting a late equaliser — the Flying Eagles bounced back emphatically with a 4-1 win over Benin Republic.
Their semi-final against Niger Republic was a tense affair, finishing goalless in regulation time before Nigeria triumphed 4-3 on penalties to secure their place in the final.
All eyes will be on Head Coach Aliyu Zubair, who continues to impress after succeeding Ladan Bosso. Zubair led the team to WAFU B glory last year in Togo and steered Nigeria to win bronze in the U20 AFCON in Egypt, securing a ticket for the FIFA U20 World Cup.
Key players for the Flying Eagles include forward Mohammed Abdullahi and midfield orchestrator Ezekiel Kpangu, both instrumental to the team's progression. Cote d’Ivoire will rely on the threat of Abdoul Bamba and Ali Kone, who have been pivotal to their unbeaten run.
The final is expected to attract top football dignitaries, including WAFU B President and NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON), alongside other high-ranking officials of the regional body.
With both teams boasting impressive form, Wednesday’s showdown promises a thrilling conclusion to the tournament.
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