Nigeria’s Flying Eagles will be aiming to extend their dominance at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations when they face South Africa’s Amajita in a highly anticipated semi-final clash today (Thursday) at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia.
The encounter marks the fourth meeting between both nations in the competition’s history, with Nigeria entering as favourites thanks to a richer pedigree and consistent tournament performance.
Seven-time champions Nigeria are appearing in their 17th AFCON semi-final and their ninth in a row in editions they’ve qualified for. Their last final appearance was in 2015, when they defeated Ghana en route to their most recent title.
So far, Nigeria’s campaign has seen a 1-0 opening win over Tunisia, followed by draws with Morocco and Kenya. They booked their semi-final spot after a tense 3-1 penalty shootout victory over Senegal, following a goalless draw in the quarter-finals.
Despite scoring just three goals in four matches—lowest among the semi-finalists—the Flying Eagles boast one of the strongest defences. Goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt has been a standout performer, with a tournament-high five saves in the last match and three clean sheets overall.
Nigeria have historically done well when the tournament is hosted in North Africa, and they’ve reached the semi-finals every time under such conditions. Their last semi-final win was in 2015—coincidentally the last time they won the title.
South Africa, on the other hand, are looking to reach only their second final. While Nigeria won their first-ever U-20 AFCON meeting in 2009 (2-1), South Africa held them to goalless draws in 2019 and edged them on penalties in the third-place match that year.
Head coach Aliyu Zubairu believes his team will be more relaxed and composed after securing a FIFA U-20 World Cup ticket with the quarter-final win.
“We’ll play with more determination and less anxiety,” he said. “This rivalry with South Africa means a lot, and we’ll be ready for battle.”
Kick-off is set for 4pm Nigerian time. Victory would move Nigeria one step closer to a record-extending 10th final appearance and a potential eighth title.
