After yesterday’s 1-0 loss to Morocco in Algeria, the Golden Eaglets’ quest for U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) glory was derailed. The North African won all three points to go to the championship game, while the three-time winners missed several opportunities in a game they […]
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After yesterday’s 1-0 loss to Morocco in Algeria, the Golden Eaglets’ quest for U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) glory was derailed.
The North African team gained all three points to advance directly to the quarterfinals despite the three-time winners squandering several opportunities in a game they dominated for significant stretches in Constantine.
Tochukwu Ogboji’s own goal in the second minute was all that was required for the Moroccans, who defeated South Africa’s Amajimbo 2-0 on the opening day, to come one step closer to winning a spot in the FIFA U17 World Cup this year.
Similar to their initial match against Zambia, the Eaglets had multiple scoring chances, but they needed to be precise in front of goal.
Abubakar Abdullahi ought to have performed better after Emmanuel Michael assisted him in the 21st minute rather than sending the ball aloft. Captain Precious Williams failed to take advantage as the North Africans deployed an impregnable rearguard.
Despite Nigeria’s defeat, Yahaya Lawali, a defender, was once again named Man-of-the-Match. In the 69th minute, he blasted skyward with a through ball. Bright Eke and Adewale Quadri, two replacements, were the only ones to threaten the Moroccan custodian during the frenetic second half.
In the end, Morocco held on to win to complete a hat trick of victories, seize command of Group B, and leave Nigeria to rue what could have been.
To ensure admission into the round of eight, the Eaglets must win their match against South Africa on Saturday.
Nigeria is in Algeria in pursuit of a third championship after winning the last U17 AFCON competition 16 years ago.
