Flying Eagles face Senegal test for AFCON semi-final, World Cup spot

By Olaolu Joseph

A gruelling and thrilling battle is in the offing as Nigeria’s Flying Eagles square off against the Young Lions of Senegal in the first quarter-final match of the African U-20 Nations Cup taking place in Egypt.

The Egyptian city of Ismailia will serve as the battleground as two powerhouses of African youth football clash in the opening game of the knockout stage.

At stake are a semi-final berth and an automatic ticket to the FIFA U-20 World Cup.

Both teams finished second in their respective groups to set up this high-profile fixture. Nigeria placed second behind Morocco in Group B, while defending champions Senegal came second in Group C.

Two years ago, Senegal ended Nigeria’s hopes of claiming an eighth title, defeating the Flying Eagles 1-0 in the semi-final in Cairo before going on to lift the trophy at Gambia’s expense. Nigeria eventually settled for the bronze medal.

The Nigerian lads have not been convincing so far, according to many local observers, and they now face the daunting task of raising their game against a formidable Senegalese side.

“We know what to expect. It is a big match for both teams because the winner will go to the World Cup. It’s like a final, and considering the rivalry between the two countries, it means we must be disciplined and determined,” Flying Eagles coach Aliyu Zubairu said ahead of the encounter.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 1:30 p.m. Nigerian time.