The Flying Eagles of Nigeria began their campaign for an eighth U20 Africa Cup of Nations title with a narrow 1-0 victory over Tunisia in a tough Group B opener at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium in Cairo on Thursday.
A precise first-half finish by Auwal Ibrahim proved the difference, as the Flying Eagles secured all three points in a match marked by fierce physical contests, close calls, and tense late moments.
Nigeria dominated the early exchanges, creating several promising opportunities but faced stiff resistance from a determined Tunisian team. In the 38th minute, Odinaka Okoro delivered a perfectly placed assist that Ibrahim converted from close range to hand Nigeria the lead.
Tunisia reacted with urgency and came close to equalising through Omar Ben Ali and Anis Doubal, but Nigeria’s defenders and goalkeeper held strong. Tunisia’s best opportunity arrived in the 87th minute, but Doubal’s effort was comfortably saved.
Midfielders Divine Oliseh and Clinton Jephta were instrumental in Nigeria’s control of possession, although the second half became increasingly fragmented with frequent fouls. Six yellow cards were issued in total, split evenly between the sides, reflecting the match’s intensity.
The North Africans, semi-finalists in 2021 and 2023, pushed for an equaliser in the final moments, launching a series of corners and long-range attempts. However, the Nigerian backline, led by Daniel Bameyi and Adamu Maigari, remained composed and unbreakable.
The result gives Nigeria three vital points in a group that also includes Morocco and Kenya, while Tunisia now face added pressure heading into their next match.
Nigeria, the most decorated team in U-20 AFCON history with seven titles, have now extended their unbeaten run in tournament openers to eight of their last ten appearances.
Tunisia, on the other hand, continue to struggle against West African teams at this level, with their winless streak in such matchups dating back to 1987.
What you should know
Nigeria’s U-20 team opened their AFCON journey with a vital win, thanks to Auwal Ibrahim’s first-half goal and a solid defensive performance that frustrated Tunisia’s late surge.
ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM VERILY NEWS
