Nigeria’s Flying Eagles secured a place in the semi-finals of the ongoing WAFU B U-20 Championship with a convincing 3-0 victory over Togo’s Sparrow Hawks in Yamoussoukro on Thursday.
The win, Nigeria’s second in Group B, followed their thrilling 4-2 triumph over Ghana’s Black Satellites in their opening fixture and underlined the team’s strong start to the tournament.
Togo provided a stern test in the first half, frustrating Nigeria’s attacking efforts and creating opportunities of their own.
The Sparrow Hawks came close to taking the lead in the 38th minute, but a clear chance went wide.
The Flying Eagles gradually increased the pressure as the half progressed, with both teams exchanging attacks. However, neither side could find the breakthrough before the interval.
Nigeria returned from the break with greater intensity and needed just a minute to take the lead.
Muiz Adeleke, who scored twice against Ghana, struck again to put the Flying Eagles 1-0 ahead and give Nigeria the perfect start to the second half.
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Togo attempted to respond, but Nigeria remained organised defensively and continued to control proceedings.
Adeleke doubled the advantage in the 59th minute after launching a swift counterattack, rounding the Togolese goalkeeper before calmly finishing to complete his brace.
The goal took his tournament tally to four, making him one of the standout performers for the seven-time African champions.
Nigeria came close to adding a third moments later after an error by the Togolese goalkeeper, but the opportunity went begging.
The third goal eventually arrived in the 85th minute when substitute Abdoulaye Agbejoye came on for Adeleke and wasted little time making an impact, finding the net to complete a commanding 3-0 victory.
The Flying Eagles comfortably saw out the remaining minutes to secure maximum points and confirm their place in the last four.
Nigeria will now face Burkina Faso on Sunday in a highly anticipated semi-final clash as they continue their quest for WAFU B U20 glory.
