Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have booked their place in the final of the 2026 WAFU B U20 Championship after defeating hosts Ivory Coast 4-3 on penalties following a thrilling 2-2 draw in regulation time.
The semi-final clash produced plenty of drama as both sides battled fiercely for a place in the tournament’s showpiece match. The Ivorians made a strong start and took the lead in the first half after dominating the opening stages of the encounter.
Nigeria responded in the second half through captain Habila Simeon, who restored parity with a crucial goal to bring the Flying Eagles back into the contest. The match remained tense as both teams continued to create chances, eventually ending 2-2 after regulation and extra time.
With neither side able to find a winner, the game was decided from the penalty spot.
That was when goalkeeper Clinton Lawani stepped forward as Nigeria’s match winner.
The Flying Eagles shot-stopper produced two crucial saves during the shootout, helping Nigeria secure a 4-3 victory and a place in the WAFU B final. His heroics sparked celebrations among players and coaching staff after one of the team’s toughest tests of the tournament.
Lawani’s performance has already earned widespread praise from fans and football observers, with many describing his saves as the turning point in the encounter. The goalkeeper’s composure under pressure ensured that Nigeria maintained its quest for regional glory.
The Flying Eagles entered the competition as one of the favourites and have now moved within one game of lifting the trophy. Their journey to the final has showcased the depth of talent within Nigeria’s youth football system and provided another glimpse of players who could become future Super Eagles stars.
Attention now shifts to the final, where Nigeria will hope to complete a successful campaign and add another WAFU B title to its collection.
