Ghana Falls to Nigeria in Thrilling 2024 WAFU B U20 Championship Final
Ghana lost 2-1 to defending champions Nigeria in the final of the 2024 WAFU B U20 Championship in Togo on Wednesday night.
The Black Satellites showcased a spirited second-half performance despite the defeat at the Stade de Kegue in Lome.
A first-half brace from Kparabo Arieri propelled the Flying Eagles to victory, ensuring the successful defense of their title from two years ago. Arieri’s goals gave Nigeria a 2-0 lead before Jerry Afriyie pulled a goal back for Ghana with just 15 minutes to go, setting up a tense finish.
Afriyie, a standout performer throughout the tournament, increased his tally to five goals but his efforts fell short in the final. He was crowned the Most Valuable Player of the Championship and won the Golden Boot award for his five goals in five matches.
Despite Ghana’s valiant efforts to equalize, Nigeria held on for the win, with both teams securing a place at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations next year.
The upcoming tournament will also serve as the African qualifiers for the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, where the four semi-finalists will qualify automatically.
