Nigeria secured a hard-fought victory over defending champions Senegal in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025, winning 3-1 on penalties after a goalless draw through regulation and extra time at the Suez Canal Stadium on Monday.
The match was a tense renewal of the fierce rivalry between the West African giants, with both sides creating scoring opportunities but unable to break the deadlock over 120 minutes. Nigeria, unbeaten in the group stages, showed remarkable composure in the shootout, with Precious Benjamin, Emmanuel Chukwu, and Israel Ayuma converting their penalties confidently. Senegal struggled under pressure, with Pierre Dorival’s and Mame Mor Faye’s attempts saved, and Ousmane Konaté’s shot hitting the crossbar. Seydi Diouck scored Senegal’s only successful penalty, but it was insufficient to keep the reigning champions in the tournament.
This victory marks Nigeria’s eighth consecutive quarter-final win under the current U20 AFCON format, extending their record of never losing a quarter-final tie in this competition. The Flying Eagles now advance to the semi-finals, bringing them closer to a record-extending eighth U20 AFCON title.
Despite the goalless scoreline, both teams had moments where they could have secured victory during regular play. Nigeria’s Kparobo Arierhi and Divine Oliseh forced crucial saves from Senegal’s goalkeeper Mouhamed Sissokho, while Senegal’s Cheikh Thiam came agonizingly close with a header that struck the post in the 42nd minute.
As the match progressed, fatigue became evident, but both teams maintained determination. Nigeria’s tactical substitutions, including the introduction of Precious Benjamin and Rickson Mendos, added attacking impetus late in the game. Senegal also reshuffled their lineup, bringing on Seydi Diouck and Mame Mor Faye in search of a breakthrough.
During extra time, Nigeria pressed aggressively. Tahir Maigana’s curling shot in the 106th minute and Israel Ayuma’s long-range effort two minutes later were both expertly saved by Sissokho. Despite Nigeria’s dominance in the closing stages, the deadlock remained unbroken.
Goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt emerged as a quiet hero for Nigeria, making a pivotal save against Mame Mor Faye’s penalty in the shootout that shifted momentum in Nigeria’s favor.
Senegal, known for their strong defensive record and ambition to retain the title, were ultimately undone by Nigeria’s discipline and precision in the decisive moments. This match marked Senegal’s first knockout-stage loss since 2017.
Post-match, Nigeria’s head coach Ladan Bosso praised his team’s resilience and preparation. “We prepared for all scenarios, including penalties. I’m proud of the boys for executing under pressure,” he said.
With this win, Nigeria not only advances to the semi-finals but also secures qualification for the FIFA U-20 World Cup scheduled to take place later this year in Chile. Senegal, meanwhile, will reflect on a hard-fought campaign that ended earlier than anticipated.
