Golden Eagles Fall to Ivory Coast in WAFU-B U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers
Golden Eaglets’ impressive streak of clean sheets came to an end on Saturday night as they suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Ivory Coast in the semi-finals of the 2024 WAFU-B U-17 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers at the University of Ghana Stadium.
The match began with high intensity, and it was the Ivory Coast who capitalized on an early defensive error by Nigeria to take the lead. In the 32nd minute, the Golden Eaglets had their first real chance to equalize when Simon Clitus intercepted a pass and set up Abdulmuiz Adeleke, who unfortunately couldn’t convert the opportunity into a goal.
As the first half drew to a close, Ivory Coast came close to doubling their lead, but Nigeria’s defense held firm, preventing any shots on target. Just four minutes into the second half, the Ivorians once again threatened, but a timely defensive block by Nigeria kept the scoreline intact.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 55th minute when Youba Koulibaly scored the only goal of the match for Ivory Coast. His initial shot was saved by Chinedu Dominic, but Koulibaly made no mistake with the rebound.
Ivory Coast continued to press, nearly extending their lead in the 73rd minute, but Nigeria’s defense managed to hold on. The Golden Eaglets fought back valiantly, with Rapha Adams setting up Clitus for a shot that was expertly blocked by the Ivorian defense. A powerful header from Imrana Mohammed following a corner also went agonizingly wide.
In the dying minutes of the match, Nigeria pushed hard for an equalizer. John Ogwuche created a golden opportunity for Adeleke, who was unable to finish. Ogwuche himself had a chance in stoppage time, but his shot missed the target.
Ivory Coast almost secured a second goal in the final moments, but a fine save from Chinedu Dominic kept the score at 1-0. Despite their efforts, the Golden Eaglets were unable to find the back of the net, and the Ivorians emerged victorious.
Coach Manu Garba praised his team’s effort and resilience but acknowledged the need to improve their finishing. “The boys showed great character and determination, but we need to be more clinical in front of goal. We will learn from this experience and come back stronger,” he said.
The Golden Eaglets will now focus on the third-place playoff, while Ivory Coast advances to the final, eyeing the championship title.
