By Victor Kanayo
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles were shocked to a 0-1 defeat by Senegal in their opening group A match of the 2023 U20 Africa Cup of Nations which kicked off on Sunday February 19, 2023.
The lost by the Nigerian side happened after the team enjoyed undefeated moments all through their friendly game series, preparatory to the continental championship, taking place in Egypt.
Incidentally, Nigeria won a sub-continental tournament after they picked up qualification ticket.
In the first match of the day, less-fancied Mozambique caged host Egypt to a goalless draw.
While Nigeria, seven times winners of the tournament face Egypt that have won four times in the next encounter, Senegal will battle Mozambique in like manner.
To qualify for the U20 FIFA World Cup, teams are expected to reach the semi-final of the ongoing youth championship.
Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) observed a moment of silence for the late Ghanian international, Christian Atsu, and victims of the earthquake tragedy during Sunday’s matches in Cairo.
Atsu, who represented his country 65 times, passed away during the tragic earthquake that hit Turkey.
