Flying Eagles Triumph Again: Nigeria Defeats Ghana 2-1 to Retain WAFU B U20 Title
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles made a powerful statement as they successfully defended their WAFU B U20 title by beating arch-rivals Ghana 2-1 in a thrilling final at the Stade Kegue in Lome, Togo. With a spirited display from both teams, this latest “Jollof Derby” provided the excitement and intensity that have become trademarks of the Nigeria-Ghana rivalry. Both teams secured spots in the upcoming 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scheduled to be hosted in South Africa, but it was Nigeria who emerged victorious in this battle for regional supremacy.
The hero of the night was 17-year-old Nigerian striker Kparobo Arierhi, who showcased his finishing prowess by netting two first-half goals. Arierhi opened the scoring in the 34th minute, and just before halftime, he doubled the lead with another well-taken goal, sending Nigerian fans into a frenzy. With his brace, Arierhi wrapped up the tournament with three goals, matching the tally of fellow teammate and Enyimba winger Clinton Jephta.
The Flying Eagles took control early in the match, keeping the Ghanaian defense on its toes with relentless attacks. Bidemi Amole was particularly effective on the wing, using his speed and skill to stretch Ghana’s backline. Nigeria’s defense was equally solid, with captain Daniel Bameyi, goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt, and right-back Adamu Maigari providing a rock-solid foundation at the back.
In the second half, the Black Satellites of Ghana rallied, spurred on by hundreds of supporters who had crossed the border to cheer them on. They found a breakthrough in the 73rd minute and kept Nigeria’s defense under pressure. Maigari made a crucial clearance on the line with the goalkeeper Harcourt beaten, preserving Nigeria’s lead. Despite creating more chances in the final moments, Ghana couldn’t find the equalizer.
With this win, the Flying Eagles solidified their dominance in the region, adding yet another WAFU B title to their storied history.