The Golden Eaglets needed just a point to seal their place in the next round, but they got all maximum three points
Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets beat South Africa 3-2 in their final group game of the 2023 Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations to reach the semifinal of the competition, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nigeria needed a draw to qualify from the group and book a World Cup ticket, and they put up a strong performance against the Amajimbos
The two-time African Champions started on a good note, defeating Zambia in their first game. But they lost their second game against Morocco. However, they bounced back and got the win against South Africa.
Soccernet.ng rates the performance of the players.
Richard Odoh 6/10: Odoh had a decent outing. There was nothing he could do about the goals he conceded.
Jeremiah Olaleke 6.0/10: The defender could have been better. He was caught asleep on many occasions, and he could have done better to prevent South Africa’s goal.
Tochukwu Ogboji 6/10: Ogboji had an average showing. The defense line was porous, but his tackles were decent.,
Emmanuel Michael 6.0/10: Michael was also good. He let the South Africans some joy sir on the left. Michael could have done better.
Yahaya Lawali 6.0/10: He often ventured forward to support the attack, leaving spaces behind for the South African to jump into.
Tochukwu Ogbadibo 6/10: Ogbadibo had a decent game, he could have done better in many instances
Hope Linus 6.5/10: Linus had a very good game. The Golden Eaglet created a few opportunities. He was a bully in midfield, and his ball recovery was top-notch.
Light Eke 7.3/10: He got his first start of the tournament, and he took it with both hands. Eke was electric and full of running. He eventually scored the second goal for Nigeria.
Abubakar Abdullahi 7.3/10: Abdullahi had a great game. His runs helped to open the South African defense a lot of times. He could have been better with his final ball. But he would be happy that he scored the goal.
Usman Owoyemi 6.7/10: Owoyemi had a good game. He was solid in midfield and he helped to create a few opportunities for the Golden Eaglets on the night.
Charles Agada 7.5/10: Daniel was lively, and he got a good goal for all his troubles. His work rate and his pressing was very impressive.
