'We can win the Afcon' - Flying Eagles midfielder fires warning to South Africa after shootout win v Senegal

Flying Eagles midfielder Alabi Sulaiman has expressed the team’s determination to win the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after Nigeria’s dramatic penalty shootout victory over Senegal at the Suez Canal Stadium on Monday afternoon.

Sulaiman, who was handed his first start of the tournament, played a key role in midfield before being substituted late in the second half as Nigeria battled to break the deadlock.

After a goalless draw in regulation and extra time, the Flying Eagles held their nerve to secure a 3-1 victory in the penalty shootout, eliminating the Lion Cubs and advancing to the semifinals.

The result not only booked Nigeria’s place in the last four of the tournament but also secured qualification for the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile.

Reacting after the game, Sulaiman expressed joy over reaching the World Cup and reaffirmed the team’s ambition to go all the way.

"I am very happy for the victory. It's a dream come true for me to qualify for the World Cup," said the El Kanemi Warriors midfielder.

He added that the team is now fully focused on lifting the continental title.

"At this point, we just want to continue to focus on the subsequent matches so that we can win the AFCON," he stated.

Nigeria will face South Africa in the semifinals on Thursday, May 15, once again at the Suez Canal Stadium, as they continue their quest for a record-extending eighth U20 AFCON title.

"At this point, we just want to continue to focus on the subsequent matches so that we can win the AFCON," he stated.

Adeyemi Adewale

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