Africa Games: Nigeria’s U-20 Women’s football team defeat Algeria to book final spot

Nigeria have qualified for the final of the 12th African Games currently underway in Rabat, Morocco after thrashing favourites Algeria 3-0 in the semi-final, ending a 12-year wait for a final spot for the West African side.

Nigeria have won the competition twice, however, they have failed to get a shot at the gold medal since 2007, when they last won in Algiers.

Having advanced to the semi-final for the third time in four attempts, the Falconets were hoping to subdue the Desert Foxes to boost their chance to reclaim the glory on North African soil.

Nigeria started on a high as they dominated possession before Cynthia Aku opened the scoring after finishing off Monday Gift’s fine build-up in the 16th minute, Goal reports.

Ten minutes later, Rivers Angels’ Aku hit her brace after she again benefited from a sumptuous pass from captain Gift to double the advantage for Nigeria.

With the victory and qualification, coach Danjuma, who is celebrating his birthday, has led the nation to the final for the first time on the second attempt, after he failed to achieve the feat in Brazzaville four years ago. 

Nigeria will take on the winner between Cameroon and hosts Morocco in the final at the Boubker Aamar Stadium on August 29.

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