Flying Eagles player ratings: Oliseh subdued, Bameyi committed, Yakub error-prone, Harcourt reliable

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to South Africa in the semi-final of the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast. Despite enjoying the better share of possession, Nigeria were undone by a 66th-minute goal after a costly mix-up involving substitute goalkeeper Yakub.

The starters

Goalkeeper

Ebenezer Ifeanyi Harcourt: Did well in the first half with a few routine stops and good distribution. Unfortunate to go off injured early in the second half. 7/10

Defenders

Adamu Bajibir Maigari: Showed energy on the flanks and supported the attack, but was occasionally caught out of position defensively. 6/10

Daniel Kolocho Bameyi: Led by example with solid tackling and positioning, but couldn’t organize the backline well enough after the goal. 6.5/10

Emmanuel Chukwu: One of Nigeria’s brightest performers. Broke up several South African attacks and nearly scored late on. 7/10

Odinaka Emmanuel Okoro: Poor marking the buildup to South Africa's game-winning goal. 4.5/10

Midfielders and forwards

Israel Ayuma: Kept the ball moving in midfield but didn’t impose himself creatively in the final third. 6/10

Sulaiman Alabi: Struggled to influence the game before being substituted. Failed to link midfield and attack effectively. 5.5/10

Divine Oliseh: Had a quiet outing and couldn’t control the midfield battle. Subbed early in the second half. 5/10

Clinton Degol Jephta: Worked hard off the ball and created space but lacked precision in the final pass. Replaced after the hour mark. 6/10

Kparobo Arierhi: Nigeria’s most dangerous attacker. Hit the crossbar and constantly troubled the defence with his direct runs. 6.5

Tahir Maigana: Looked lively in the opening minutes, with one curling shot just wide. Influence faded before being substituted. 5/10

The substitutes

Yakub: His error on South Africa’s goal proved costly. Failed to command his box under pressure. 4/10

Precious Benjamin: Added some energy in midfield but didn’t create much. 5.5/10

Auwal Ibrahim: Had a few bright touches and got into good positions. 6/10

Bidemi Amole: Offered little after coming on.4/10

Rickson Mendos: Wasn't able to impact the game in the final third. 5/10

Wale Adejumo

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