U-17 AFCON: Nigeria beat South Africa 3-2 to book quarter-final place

Ayomikun Elemikan Sports 07/05/2023

Nigeria’s national U-17 male football team the Golden Eaglets fought hard to earn a 3-2 victory over South Africa in the final game of group B at the ongoing U-17 AFCON tournament holding in Algeria.

The West Africans emerged victors to seal a quarter-final place following the entertaining match played at Stade Chahid Hamlaoui on Saturday.

Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets beat South Africa 3-2 in their final group match to progress to the quarter-final of the U-17 AFCON tournament (Image: @PoojaMedia)

South Africa took the lead six minutes into the encounter through Vicky Mkhawana who scored from a corner kick.

The Nigerians never looked dejected but rather advanced with smooth attacking transitions that disturbed their opponents. However, the South Africans remained strong, denying the Golden Eaglets from advancing through the defensive line.

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In the 33rd minute, coach Nduka Ugbade’s boys netted the much needed equalizer when Charles Agada headed in.

The Nigerian midfield kept flourishing, with the likes of Usman Owoyemi and Hope Linus putting up commanding performances.

Golden Eaglets celebrate a goal against South Africa (Image: @MakingOfChamps)

However, just against the run of play, Siyabonga Mabena, who was very impressive, dealt the Nigerians a big blow. The young lad scored a fantastic solo goal in the first half stoppage time.

The goals continued to pour in early in the second half when Light Eke restored parity for the five-time world champions. Charles Agada assisted the goal.

With the scoreline at 2-2, the Nigerians took absolute control of the match. The players played well above their ages and their technicality on the field of play was a joy to behold.

South Africa led 2-1 at halftime against Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets (Image: @MakingOfChamps)

Abubakar Abdullahi who narrowly missed the target, registered his name on the score sheet moments later. His calm and collected finish inside the area gave Nigeria the lead for the first time in the thrilling encounter.

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The win against South Africa was a huge one for Nigeria in the U-17 AFCON tournament. Nigeria had only three points from two games heading into the final group encounter.