Nigeria’s Flying Eagles suffer 1-0 defeat to Burkina Faso in WAFU B U20 opener
Defending champions Nigeria’s Flying Eagles began their 2024 WAFU B U20 Championship campaign with a narrow 1-0 loss to Burkina Faso on Friday evening at the Municipal Stadium in Lome.
The Flying Eagles had a bright start, with Kparobo Arierhi finding himself through on goal early in the first half, only to fire his effort off target. Burkina Faso responded immediately, forcing Nigerian goalkeeper Nathaniel Nwosu into a save to keep the scores level.
In the 22nd minute, Nwosu once again denied the Young Stallions, calmly collecting a dangerous free-kick delivered into his area. Burkina Faso continued to press and came close to breaking the deadlock four minutes later, but a header from a cross drifted narrowly wide.
Nigeria also had promising moments, with Kenneth Igboke darting into the penalty area but sending his shot off target. Nwosu remained busy in the first half, making a crucial stop from close range in the 33rd minute to keep the score at 0-0 going into the break.
The Flying Eagles struggled to create clear-cut chances after the restart, with Nasiru Salihu attempting a speculative long-range shot that went well off target.
Burkina Faso finally found the breakthrough in the 66th minute through Coulibaly Dramane, who pounced on a loose ball after Nigeria failed to properly clear a set piece. Dramane’s goal proved decisive, as the Flying Eagles were unable to mount any serious threat in the final minutes.
Nigeria must now regroup quickly as they prepare to face Ivory Coast in their second group match. A win is crucial to keep their hopes alive of progressing to the next round and defending their title.
