The Flying Eagles of Nigeria secured a 3-1 victory over Niger in a high-stakes match to earn their spot at the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in South Africa. Despite an early setback, the team’s resilience shone through as they overturned a one-goal deficit. Niger took the lead just nine minutes into the game, setting a tense tone for the encounter. However, Enyimba winger Clinton Jephta played a pivotal role in the comeback, netting two goals to swing the match in Nigeria’s favor. His decisive brace was instrumental in ensuring Nigeria’s place in the AFCON tournament while also advancing them to the final of the WAFU B U20 Championship.

The game saw Nigeria’s Flying Eagles steadily gaining control after Niger’s initial surge. Their patience and strategic play paid off when Jephta leveled the score in the 35th minute, demonstrating Nigeria’s discipline in responding to Niger’s more direct, long-ball approach. Jephta struck again in the 58th minute, pushing Nigeria into the lead, much to the delight of their supporters. In a tense closing phase, Niger continued to press, creating moments of near-danger for the Nigerian side. Yet, the Flying Eagles held their ground, defending their narrow lead until substitute Alonge Olalekan, with the final kick of the game in stoppage time, secured Nigeria’s win with a third goal, giving them a more comfortable scoreline and a well-deserved victory.

This win sets up a thrilling WAFU B U20 Championship final, where the Flying Eagles will meet the Black Satellites of Ghana. Known as the “Jollof Derby,” this rivalry promises an intense battle, especially as the Nigerian team looks to defend their title. With Jephta’s exceptional form and a solid defensive performance, the Flying Eagles head into Wednesday’s final as a force to be reckoned with. Both teams will be vying not only for regional dominance but also for momentum leading into the AFCON in South Africa, adding another layer of significance to this eagerly awaited showdown.