Nigeria’s Flying Eagles on Friday suffered a disappointing 1-0 loss to Burkina Faso of their opening Group B match of the WAFU B U20 AFCON in Lome, Togo, placing their title defence in potential hazard.
The defending champions, who arrived in Lome on Tuesday afternoon after an intensive one-week tenting program on the Remo Stars Coaching Advanced in Ikenne, Ogun State, now face an uphill battle to achieve the knockout phases.
Earlier than their departure, the group obtained a morale-boosting gesture from Kunle Soname, proprietor of the Remo Stars Institute and president of Nigeria Premier Soccer League membership Remo Stars.
Mr Soname promised the Flying Eagles N5 million in the event that they efficiently defend their title in Togo and return the trophy dwelling.
He additionally donated N1 million to the group on their departure.
The Flying Eagles, who gained the final version of the competitors in Niamey, Niger Republic, struggled to copy their previous success within the opening match.
Burkina Faso’s successful aim got here within the 56th minute, rewarding their dominance over the Nigerian group.
Article Web page with Monetary Help Promotion
Within the first half, each groups struggled to seek out their footing, with Burkina Faso creating the higher possibilities.
Goalkeeper Nathaniel Nwosu made a vital save within the thirty fourth minute to disclaim the Junior Stallions.
The Flying Eagles steadily gained momentum, however Burkina Faso’s relentless strain paid off within the second half.
Nigeria’s left-back Kenneth Igboke had earlier threatened the Burkina Faso aim within the thirty first minute, however his shot was deflected for a nook.
READ ALSO: WAFU B U-17 Championship: Golden Eaglets coach displays on Burkina Faso draw
Burkina Faso will subsequent face Cote d’Ivoire on Monday of their second Group B match, whereas the Flying Eagles should regroup and deal with their decisive conflict with the Ivorians on Thursday.
The continuing championship in Togo is a qualifying match for subsequent yr’s Africa U20 Cup of Nations.
Solely the highest two groups within the group will progress into the semi-final.
Help PREMIUM TIMES’ journalism of integrity and credibility
At Premium Instances, we firmly imagine within the significance of high-quality journalism. Recognizing that not everybody can afford expensive information subscriptions, we’re devoted to delivering meticulously researched, fact-checked information that continues to be freely accessible to all.
Whether or not you flip to Premium Instances for each day updates, in-depth investigations into urgent nationwide points, or entertaining trending tales, we worth your readership.
It’s important to acknowledge that information manufacturing incurs bills, and we take pleasure in by no means putting our tales behind a prohibitive paywall.
Would you think about supporting us with a modest contribution on a month-to-month foundation to assist keep our dedication to free, accessible information?
Make Contribution
TEXT AD: Name Willie – +2348098788999
