African Games: Nigeria’s Flying Eagles defeat South Sudan to keep knockout qualification hopes alive

Sadiq Isyaka scored a late-penalty for the Flying Eagles of Nigeria as they sealed a 1-0 win over South Sudan in their second game of the ongoing African Games on Monday, March 11, 2024.

The Flying Eagles had a disappointing start in the African Games, suffering a 2-1 loss to Uganda in their first game. However, they were determined to bounce back and secure a spot in the knockout rounds when they faced South Sudan.

Ladan Bosso’s team were favored to claim all three points, but they need to improve their performance from the previous game to succeed.

Although the Flying Eagles dominated the first half, they failed to convert their chances and entered halftime with a goalless draw.

However, they stepped up their game in the second half, creating numerous opportunities in the first 20 minutes. Their persistence paid off in the 78th minute when they were awarded a penalty after a South Sudan player committed a foul in the box.

Isyaka, who has been performing well throughout the tournament, confidently converted the penalty in the 80th minute, giving the Flying Eagles a 1-0 lead.

Despite having a chance to extend their lead late in the game, they were unable to capitalise on it. The match eventually ended 1-0 at the University of Ghana Stadium.

Nigeria will face Senegal in the last group stage match, with an eye on a semi-final spot at the games currently taking place in Ghana.