Golden Eaglets exit WAFU B tournament and lose 2027 World Cup hopes

Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets have been eliminated from the WAFU B U-17 Championship after a 1-1 draw with Cote d’Ivoire in their second Group B match in Burkina Faso on Saturday.

The result also ended Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2027 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco and, consequently, the 2027 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The Golden Eaglets needed victory to secure a place in the semi-finals after beginning their campaign with a 2-1 defeat by Niger Republic. Cote d’Ivoire had drawn 1-1 with Niger Republic in their opening fixture.

Nigeria fell behind in the 17th minute when Alex Bamba reacted quickest to a corner and bundled the ball into the net.

The Golden Eaglets were unable to find an equaliser until five minutes before the end, when Abiodun John restored parity.

However, the late goal was not enough to keep Nigeria in the competition. Cote d’Ivoire held on for the draw and progressed to the last four alongside Niger Republic.

The Golden Eaglets’ failure to advance means they will not compete at the 2027 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, which is to be hosted by Morocco. Their absence from that tournament also rules them out of the 2027 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.