Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have secured a spot in the semifinals of the 2025 CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations — and more significantly — qualified for the FIFA U-20 World Cup after edging out Senegal in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout in Ismailia.
After 90 minutes of regulation time and 30 minutes of extra time ended goalless, the tie was decided from the penalty spot. The Flying Eagles held their nerves and triumphed over the Young Lions of Teranga, sending Nigeria into the last four of the tournament and confirming their return to the global stage.
This marks Nigeria’s first qualification for the FIFA U-20 World Cup since 2019, ending a six-year absence from the tournament. It is also their 15th appearance at the world showpiece — a record among African nations.
Head coach Aliyu Zubairu praised his team’s mental toughness, saying, “This team showed heart, discipline, and resilience. We knew what was at stake and the boys delivered under pressure.”
Team captain Daniel Bameyi, visibly emotional after the final whistle, added: “This means everything. We fought for this moment, for ourselves, our coaches, and millions of Nigerians. We’re going to the World Cup — but we’re not done yet.”
Nigeria will now await their semifinal opponent as they continue their pursuit of a record-extending eighth U-20 AFCON title
