WAFU Zone-B U-20: Nigeria storm back to defeat Benin and clinch semifinal place

The Nigeria under-20 national team fell behind but scored four unanswered goals in a decisive 4-1 victory over Benin on the second day of action from Group A at the 2025 WAFU Zone-B U-20 Boys Cup hosted by Ghana.

Junior Olugbade’s 25th minute free kick got Benin off to a dream start in their first game of the tournament. However, the Flying Eagles of Nigeria rallied to level through Muhammed Abdullahi before halftime.

Nigeria then jumped on the Young Cheetahs early in the second half, utilizing timely pressing to capitalize on the mistakes of their opponents. Ezekiel Kpangu’s strike in the 48th minute put the Flying Eagles ahead and late goals from Imrana Muhammed Abduljeleel Kamaldeen confirmed a decisive victory that qualifies Nigeria for the semifinals.

Benin will now need to defeat hosts Ghana in their second match from Group A on Wednesday. Ghana played Nigeria to a 1-1 draw in the opening game of the competition and will only need to avoid defeat to join rivals Nigeria in the semifinals.

Action from the competition continues on Monday when Group B proceeds with its second match day as Niger clash with Ivory Coast (15:00) before Burkina Faso face Togo.

Group A Table

Group B Table (1 match played)