Nigeria’s Gritty Draw Seals U20 AFCON Quarterfinal Berth
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles relinquished their unbeaten record but secured a U20 Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal ticket after a pulsating 2-2 draw with Kenya in their final Group B clash. Goals from Kparobo Arierhi and captain Daniel Bameyi canceled out Kenya’s leads, ensuring Nigeria finished second behind Morocco.
Match Highlights: Resilience Amid Drama
First Half:
- 6’: Kenya took an early lead via Kevin Wangaya’s penalty after Chukwu’s handball.
- 13’: Arierhi leveled with a composed finish, rounding the keeper after Simon Cletus’s assist.
- Nerve-Wracking Chances: Arierhi’s header saved, Jephta’s curler narrowly missed, and Kenya’s Aldrine Kibet tested goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt.
Second Half:
- 67’: Kenya’s William Gitama Mwangi smashed in a stunning free-kick off the crossbar.
- 72’: Captain Bameyi converted a penalty after Rickson Mendos was fouled, sealing the draw.
- Late Drama: Divine Oliseh missed a golden chance to win it, blazing over from close range.
Key Takeaways
- Defensive Lapses: Nigeria conceded their first goals of the tournament (penalty + set piece).
- Captain’s Heroics: Bameyi’s leadership shone with a goal-saving tackle and ice-cool penalty.
- Kenya’s Milestone: The Rising Stars celebrated their first-ever U20 AFCON point.
What’s Next: Quarterfinal Showdown
Nigeria, as Group B runners-up, will face the second-placed team in Group C (DR Congo, Ghana, Senegal, or CAR).
- Group C Deciders (May 8):
- Senegal vs DR Congo
- Ghana vs Central African Republic
CTA: Can the Flying Eagles win U20 AFCON? Predict their quarterfinal outcome and follow our live updates!
Final Whistle
While Nigeria’s invincibility ended, their fighting spirit ensured progression. With Bameyi’s leadership and Arierhi’s flair, the quarterfinals beckon—a stage where redemption awaits.
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