WAFU B U-20: Flying Eagles Target Early Semi-Final Spot Against Togo’s Sparrow Hawks
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles will be aiming to secure an early place in the semi-finals of the 2026 WAFU B U-20 Championship when they face Togo’s Junior Sparrow Hawks on Thursday at the Lycée Scientifique Stadium in Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire.
The defending champions head into the Group B encounter in high spirits after an impressive 4-2 victory over arch-rivals Ghana in their opening fixture.
Another victory over Togo would take Nigeria to six points and guarantee qualification for the last four with a game to spare, ahead of their final group match against Burkina Faso.
Coach Abdu Maikaba’s side currently tops Group B on goal difference after both Nigeria and Burkina Faso won their opening matches.
While the Flying Eagles are chasing an early semi-final ticket,
Togo are under pressure to avoid defeat after losing 3-1 to Burkina Faso in their first outing. Another loss would end their hopes of progressing to the knockout stage.
Nigeria’s attack looked sharp against Ghana, with Olayemi Ayinla opening the scoring before Lucky Oraro restored the lead following Ghana’s equaliser.
Muiz Adeleke then stole the show with a brace from the penalty spot to seal a memorable victory over the Black Satellites.
Beyond defending their regional crown, the Flying Eagles are also targeting qualification for the 2027 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, with the tournament serving as the pathway to the continental championship.
Thursday’s clash is scheduled to kick off at 3:00 pm Nigerian time, with Nigeria hoping to continue their impressive start and book a semi-final place before their final group game against Burkina Faso.
