Nigeria’s Flying Eagles suffered a 2-0 defeat to Burkina Faso in their final Group B match of the 2026 WAFU B U-20 Championship on Sunday, but still secured a place in the semi-finals as runners-up.
Despite the loss, Abdu Maikaba’s side finished second in the group with six points after recording earlier victories over Ghana (4-2) and Togo (3-0), enough to seal qualification for the last four.
Burkina Faso topped Group B with seven points from three matches, while Ghana finished third on two points following a goalless draw with Togo, who ended the campaign with one point.
The Young Stallions took the lead in the 23rd minute when Alassana Bagayogo rose highest to head home from a corner kick.
Burkina Faso doubled their advantage 13 minutes later through Mohamed Zongo, who curled a superb free-kick from about 30 yards beyond the reach of the Nigerian goalkeeper.
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The Flying Eagles improved after the restart and enjoyed more possession but struggled to break down Burkina Faso’s disciplined defence, which comfortably protected its two-goal advantage until the final whistle.
Despite the defeat, Nigeria’s qualification hopes had already been strengthened by their earlier victories, ensuring passage to the semi-finals.
The result sets up a semi-final clash between the Flying Eagles and tournament hosts Côte d’Ivoire, while Burkina Faso will take on Niger in the other last-four encounter.
The two finalists will earn qualification for the 2027 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations, which is scheduled to be hosted by Ghana.
