Slippery forward Kparobo Arierhi netted a brace, leading Nigeria to a 2-1 victory over regional rivals Ghana to successfully defend their WAFU U20 title in the final held in Lome on Wednesday night.
The Flying Eagles displayed dominance throughout large portions of the match, particularly in the first half, while Ghana mounted a strong challenge in the second half.
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Harcourt made crucial saves early in the game, stopping a point-blank header in the 14th minute and punching away a dangerous shot during added time in the first half.
Arierhi’s first goal came in the 34th minute, finishing calmly into the bottom corner after receiving a pass on the edge of the box. His second goal was a spectacular effort, blasting a right-footed shot into the roof of the net after a series of precise passes.
Despite Ghana’s increased pressure and their eventual goal in the 74th minute, Nigeria’s defense held strong, ensuring their victory. Arierhi was named Man of the Match for his decisive performance.
Both Nigeria and Ghana will now represent WAFU B at the Africa U20 Cup of Nations next year in South Africa.
