Golden Eaglets face must-win Cote d’Ivoire test after Niger defeat

Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets must beat Cote d’Ivoire on Saturday to keep their 2026 WAFU B U-17 Championship campaign alive after losing their opening match to Niger Republic.

Eboboritse Uwejamomere’s side were beaten 2-1 by Niger in their first fixture, leaving them with little margin for error in their second Group encounter.

Cote d’Ivoire drew with Niger and have one point from their opening game. A victory is therefore essential for Nigeria if they are to maintain their hopes of progressing in the competition.

Despite the pressure created by the defeat, Golden Eaglets head coach Uwejamomere said his players remained positive and were ready to respond against the Ivorians.

“We had a setback in the game against Niger Republic, but we are in great spirit to overcome it as we play Cote d’Ivoire on Saturday,” he told thenff.com.

Uwejamomere admitted that the fixture presented a difficult challenge, but said his technical team had assessed Cote d’Ivoire’s approach, as well as the strengths and weaknesses that Nigeria could target.

“It is a dicey situation. We are calm and reminding the players of how we want to play. We have analysed Cote d’Ivoire, how they play, their strengths and weaknesses.

“There is just a little bit of pressure because it is a must-win game for Nigeria. So, we have to keep the players composed and believing in themselves, knowing that we can get the result we need,” he added.

The coach also praised the quality of the Ivorian team and said Nigeria would need to show the same determination and competitiveness if they were to secure the required result.

“The Ivorians are a very good side. They can fight, but we also have to fight and show them how much we want the victory. We know what we have to do to beat them. I’m confident,” he concluded.