International friendly: Nigeria beat Cote d’Ivoire 2-0 in Abidjan
The Flying Eagles secured a commanding 2-0 victory over hosts Young Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire in the first of two international friendly matches at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan on Thursday.
Captain Daniel Bameyi put Nigeria ahead in the 63rd minute, confidently converting a penalty after Divine Oliseh was fouled in the box.
The seven-time African champions dominated from the start, but the hosts were fortunate to reach halftime on level terms.
Determined to extend their lead, the Flying Eagles doubled their advantage with 10 minutes remaining as Oliseh found the net to seal the win.
Both teams will face off again at the same venue on Friday as they continue preparations for the 2024 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations, scheduled for April 26 – May 18.
Tournament hosts Cote d’Ivoire have been drawn in Group A alongside DR Congo, Ghana, Tanzania, and a second Central African representative, while the Flying Eagles will compete in a challenging Group B against Egypt, South Africa, and Morocco.
