Nigeria’s U20 squad secured a dramatic 3-1 penalty shootout victory over defending champions Senegal on Monday, advancing to the semi-finals of the CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 after a goalless draw at Suez Canal Stadium.
The tense quarter-final clash saw both West African powerhouses create chances but fail to score through 120 minutes of regulation and extra time. Nigeria, unbeaten in the group stage, showcased composure in the shootout, with Precious Benjamin, Emmanuel Chukwu, and Israel Ayuma converting their penalties. Senegal faltered as Pierre Dorival’s attempt was saved, Mame Mor Faye’s was denied, and Ousmane Konaté struck the crossbar. Seydi Diouck scored Senegal’s lone penalty, but it wasn’t enough to keep the reigning champions alive.
Nigeria’s victory marks their eighth consecutive quarter-final win in the U20 AFCON under its current format. Goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt emerged as a key figure, saving Faye’s penalty to seal the win. Senegal, who hadn’t lost a knockout match since 2017, were undone by Nigeria’s precision under pressure.
Nigeria’s Kparobo Arierhi and Divine Oliseh tested Senegal’s Mouhamed Sissokho, while Cheikh Thiam’s header struck the post for Senegal.
In extra time, Nigeria pressed with Tahir Maigana and Ayuma forcing saves, but the deadlock held.Coach Ladan Bosso lauded his team’s preparation, stating, “We were ready for penalties, and the boys delivered.” Nigeria now eyes a record-extending eighth U20 AFCON title, while Senegal exits after a valiant campaign.
The Flying Eagles will face their semi-final opponents next, carrying momentum and an unblemished quarter-final record in the competition.