Nigeria Flying Eagles have emerged Champions of the African Under-20 Championship after beating host, Senegal, with just a goal.
The Flying Eagles secured the winner at the 19 minute of the game, after the Senegalese goal keeper failed to stop Bulbwa’s flick.
It is Nigeria’s 7th African U20 title and an outstanding outing for the Flying Eagles.
With thunderous cheers from crowd at the arena, the Flying Eagles started the tension soaked match on a strong note with effort at curtailing the Junior Lions from fast breaks as both sides struggle hard for the African U20 crown.
Goalkeeper Joshua Enaholo denied El Hadji Malick Niang from burying a golden opportunity just after nine minutes from kick off. Again, the Senegalese pressured the Flying Eagles defence but skipper Musa Muhammed’s block was on time to deny the hosts from hitting the back of the net.
In the 18th minute, a momentary silence graced the arena as Bernard Balbwa out Nigeria ahead. The master strike rested at the back of the net. The goal was world class. Just after the goal, the Nigerian supporters went into serious jubilations, while the Senegalese fans hoped and prayed for an equaliser.
The Senegalese made several attempts at leveling up but the attacking fire power of the team denied them the opportunity.
Meanwhile members of the victorious Flying Eagles have returned to Nigeria after winning the African U20 Championship trophy in Dakar, Senegal.
Shortly after their victory over the Junior Lions of Senegal, the African Champions left the stadium for the Leopoldo Sedar Senghor Airport to board an Arik Airline flight headed for Lagos and then transit to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
The Manu Garba lads left the shores of Dakar at about 1:20am Nigerian time and would connect Abuja from Lagos by 9am on Monday (today).
The team is expected to be treated to a presidential reception at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja at a later date.