U17 Afconq Nigeria 0-0 Burkina Faso: Golden Eaglets advance to semifinals after topping group

The Golden Eaglets of Nigeria booked their place in the semifinals of the WAFU-B U17 Tournament, which serves as qualifiers for the U17 Africa Cup of Nations, after a goalless draw with Burkina Faso in Yamoussoukro on Saturday. 

The result ensured Nigeria topped Group B on goal difference, securing a path to the knockout stage.

Having opened their campaign with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Benin Republic, Manu Garba’s boys entered the tie with confidence. 

They controlled the early exchanges, moving the ball with purpose. 

Goalkeeper Great Edafe produced the game’s first big save in the 20th minute, parrying away a fierce effort from the Burkinabe attack to keep the contest level.

Nigeria’s pressure continued as the first half wore on, but the opposition proved disciplined in defense, shutting down openings and frustrating the Eaglets’ frontline.

The tempo increased after the restart, with Nigeria nearly benefiting from a Burkina Faso mishap when a defender’s clearance hit the post in the 55th minute. 

The best chance fell late in the game to Emeka Nnalue, who skipped past two defenders before narrowly missing the target with a low drive in the 80th minute.

Despite their efforts, Nigeria could not find the decisive goal. Still, the draw was enough to confirm their semifinal spot as Group B winners.

Wale Adejumo

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