Nigeria’s Flying Eagles failed to reach next year’s Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Zambia, falling to a shock 3-4 home defeat to Sudan who sealed a famous qualification.
Nigeria hosted Sudan in Lagos leading 2-1 from the first leg, but Sudan – who had a man sent off – came from behind to level the tie 5-5 overall and progress on away goals.
Senegal qualified on Friday after eliminating Ghana, and South Africa went through with a win over Lesotho.
Nigeria, who have enjoyed much success in youth competitions both in Africa and globally, went into the return leg of their qualifier against Sudan as favourites to win.
Not only did they hold a 2-1 advantage from the first leg, they also had 15 members of Nigeria’s triumphant Under-17 World Cup winning sidefrom Chile 2015 in their squad – including the top scorer from that tournament, Victor Osimhen.
The Flying Eagles started off well with Samuel Chukwueze putting the hosts ahead after 15 minutes to make it 1-0.
Just six minutes later, Sudan equalised through Amghd Ahmed, but Nigeria again went in front when Bamgboye followed up a cross from Chukwueze and tapped in to make it 2-1.
But Sudan’s dogged determination helped them equalise again through Halid Abdamuleem to make it 2-2 at the break, 4-3 to Nigeria on aggregate.
With the pressure mounting on Nigeria, Sudan took advantage and stunned the hosts with a goal after 56 minutes from Walaadihh Musa to make it 3-2 to Sudan and 4-4 overall.
Just five minutes later, the goal-scorer Musa was sent off for dissent.
Nigeria took advantage immediately with Orji Okonkwo scoring after 67 minutes to make it 3-3 on the day, but still Sudan ploughed on despite being down to 10 men and losing 5-4 on aggregate.
Their reward came seven minutes from time when Halid Abdamuleem scored a shock winner for Sudan, his second of the game.
Nigeria were unable to respond, with Sudan famously holding on to win 4-3 and progress on away goals after the tie ended 5-5 on aggregate.
In total, seven teams will join hosts, Zambia, at the finals next year.
Trending
- Alleged defilement of girlfriend: 23-year-old student freed after two years
- We’re not aware of any BoT in Labour Party — NEC
- Anambra police station attacked, set ablaze
- National Convention: We gave INEC over 100 days notice – LP
- Naira falls against dollar by 0.7%
- Delta Killings: Traditional ruler declared wanted surrenders self
- 3rd Mainland Bridge: Minister gives date for full reopening
- Eve’s Desire: Challenges of a loveless marriage, by Tiwa Says