Seven-time champions Nigeria defeat defending title holders Senegal in a thrilling quarter-final clash at the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 on Monday in Ismailia to secure a spot in the 2025 U-20 World Cup.
It was a meeting between two of the most storied sides in the competition’s history, but both arrived at this stage with uncertainties despite their pedigree.
Senegal’s journey to the last eight experienced setbacks but that notwithstanding, they progressed following a 1-1 draw against the Central African Republic in their opening game.
Nigeria, on the other hand, remained unbeaten, opening their group game with a 1-0 win over Tunisia, then drew 0-0 with Morocco and surprisingly 2-2 against already-eliminated Kenya.
Senegal, who were hoping to become the first team to successfully defend the U20 AFCON title since Ghana did it in 2011, were unsuccessful as they were eliminated by the competition’s record holders Nigeria on penalties.
The game, which saw limited clear-cut chances in both regular time and extra time, meant the two teams needed to be separated by penalties, and Nigerian goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt came on top with two crucial saves to send the record holders to the next round of the competition.
Meanwhile, the win means Nigeria U20’s dream of an eighth continental crown is still alive, and they have returned to the World Cup after a quarter-final exit in 2023.
Nigeria will now face the winner of South Africa or DR Congo in their quest to secure eight U20 AFCON titles.
