AFCON U-20: Nigeria’s Flying Eagles defeat Senegal on penalties to reach semi-finals

Nigeria, who advanced from the group stage unbeaten, showed remarkable composure during the penalty kicks.

Spot kicks from Precious Benjamin, Emmanuel Chukwu, and Israel Ayuma were all confidently dispatched, while goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt stepped up with a crucial save that helped tilt the contest in Nigeria’s favour.

Senegal faltered under pressure, with Pierre Dorival’s attempt saved, Mame Mor Faye’s effort denied, and Ousmane Konaté rattling the crossbar.

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Seydi Diouck converted Senegal’s only successful penalty, but it was not enough to rescue the holders from elimination.

The victory marks Nigeria’s eighth consecutive quarter-final triumph in the U20 AFCON under the current tournament format, underscoring their consistency at this stage of the competition.

They now advance to the semi-finals with their eyes set on clinching an eighth continental title.

While the scoreline remained goalless in open play, the match was far from short of drama.

Nigeria’s Kparobo Arierhi and Divine Oliseh each tested Senegal goalkeeper Mouhamed Sissokho, while Senegal’s Cheikh Thiam struck the post with a powerful header late in the first half.

AFCON U-20: Nigeria’s Flying Eagles defeat Senegal on penalties to reach semi-finals