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The jollof banter continues with Nigeria getting a lick back on Ghana as the Black Satellites failed to qualify for the Under-20 World Cup.
Ghana were looking to upset host nation Egypt in the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-finals to secure a final-four spot, which would have automatically seen them qualify for the youth World Cup.
Egypt struck early with Sherif Momen scoring a brace in 27 minutes to hand the host a much-needed advantage. The Black Satellites were unsettled and had to dig deep to get something out of the game.
They were finally rewarded when Barcelona youngster Abdul Aziz Issah’s long-range effort found its way past the goalkeeper into the back of the net. The first half ended 2-1 in favour of the Egyptians.
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After recess, coach Desmond Offei’s side kept mounting pressure, trying to find an equaliser. That didn’t come until the last minute of the 10 additional minutes when a penalty was awarded to the Black Satellites.
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Abdul Hakim Sulemana converted from the spot to level the scores. The game went into extra time, but the Black Satellites couldn’t find a winner as Aaron Essel saw red in the 107th minute.
The game went to penalties and the hosts won 5-4 after Dacosta Antwi missed his kick. It was heartbreak for the Black Satellites.
Nigeria secure World Cup qualification
Elsewhere, though, seven-time champions Nigeria defeated defending title holders Senegal 3-1 on penalties in Ismailia to grab a spot in the 2025 U-20 World Cup after a quarter-final exit in 2023.
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The Flying Eagles are on course to win an eighth continental crown, but they first must beat the South Africa.