WAFU B Under-17 Championship: Golden Eaglets lose 2-1 to Niger

Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets began their WAFU B Under-17 Championship campaign with a disappointing 2-1 loss to Niger Republic on Wednesday night.

Niger took the lead in the 19th minute thanks to Abdoul Razaq Zada, who took advantage of a mistake by goalkeeper Mutiu Adedayo.

Zada calmly slotted the ball in after Adedayo failed to finish a cross inside his penalty area.

The Nigeriens sealed their victory four minutes from time when Abdoul Rakilou doubled their lead.

Also read: WAFU B Under-17 Championship: Golden Eaglets coach optimistic ahead of clash in Niger

Mubarak Fasiu scored a consolation goal for Nigeria in added time, but his effort was not enough to prevent the Golden Eaglets from suffering defeat in their first match.

The result leaves Eboboritse Uwejamomere’s team at the bottom of Group A without any points.

Niger, for its part, secured a place in the semi-finals after accumulating four points in two games.

Nigeria must now turn its attention to the final group match, where it will face Ivory Coast for the second qualifying spot for the knockout phase.

Ivory Coast currently have one point after their 1-1 draw with Niger, setting up a crucial fight for the remaining spot in the semi-finals.

By Adeboye Amosu