Young Stallions crush Flying Eagles to claim WAFU-B crown and AFCON berth
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat to Burkina Faso in the final of the 2026 WAFU Zone B U-20 Championship at the Stade Charles Konan Banny in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast, on Sunday.
The result saw the Young Stallions lift the regional title and secure their place at next year’s Africa U-20 Cup of Nations alongside hosts Ghana as representatives of the WAFU B zone.
Burkina Faso produced a dominant first-half performance, racing into a commanding three goal lead before the break.
The Young Stallions punished lapses in the Nigerian defence with their pace, direct attacking play and relentless pressure, leaving the defending champions with a mountain to climb after the opening 45 minutes.
Nigeria returned from the interval with renewed determination and managed to reduce the deficit through Muiz Adeleke, who calmly converted from the penalty spot to make it 3-1.
The goal briefly revived the Flying Eagles’ hopes as Abdu Maikaba’s side pushed forward in search of a second goal. However, Burkina Faso remained compact and disciplined, frustrating Nigeria’s attempts to stage a comeback.
The Young Stallions eventually put the contest beyond doubt with a late fourth goal, completing a convincing 4-1 victory.
The defeat was particularly painful for the Flying Eagles as Burkina Faso had already beaten Nigeria in their group stage encounter earlier in the competition.
With the victory, Burkina Faso completed a memorable campaign by defeating the defending champions twice and securing both the WAFU B U-20 trophy and qualification for the 2027 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations.
Join the Savid News channel on WhatsApp:
