The Golden Eaglets made a powerful start to their WAFU Zone B U17 AFCON qualifiers campaign as striker George Agha scored a sensational hat-trick in a 4-1 victory over Benin Republic.
The win puts Nigeria on top of Group B, boosting their chances of qualifying for the 2025 Africa U17 Cup of Nations (AFCON).
George Agha Opens Scoring Early
Nigeria wasted no time in asserting dominance, with George Agha converting a penalty in the 2nd minute to give the Eaglets the lead.
Just three minutes later, captain David Eden doubled the advantage with a stunning free kick from near the corner flag, leaving the Benin goalkeeper helpless.
Hat-Trick Hero for the Eaglets
By the 14th minute, Agha struck again, finishing a precise cross from Sadiq Salihu to make it 3-0.
The forward then completed his hat-trick — the first of the tournament — with a close-range strike, putting Nigeria firmly in control before halftime.
Benin Grab Consolation Goal
Despite Nigeria’s dominance, Jeremy Zannou pulled one back for Benin in the closing stages of the first half, firing into the bottom corner to give the Young Cheetahs a lifeline.
The second half saw Benin attempt a comeback, but the Golden Eaglets held strong to seal a commanding 4-1 victory.
The result moves Nigeria to the top of Group B with three points and a superior goal difference. The Eaglets now prepare for a crucial clash against Burkina Faso, which will determine the group leaders.
With George Agha’s hat-trick performance, Nigeria have sent a strong signal to their rivals that they remain a dominant force in African youth football.
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