TheCable

The national U-20 team, the Flying Eagles, on Wednesday in Abuja defeated Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) side, Warri Wolves by 1-0 in the Super Six invitational tournament.

Before the kick-off of the match, a minute silence was observed for former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Wilfred Agbonavbare who died on Tuesday.

Warri Wolves dominated the open exchanges but were unable to break the defence line of the Flying Eagles.

Wolves came close to scoring the first goal in the 8th minute when Abu Azeez created a chance for Joseph Osadiaye, but his shot was tipped over the bar by goalkeeper Joshua Enaholo.

The Flying Eagles struggled to get into their passing game like they did in their previous games against Enyimba and Kano Pillars as Wolves continued to hold them off.

It was not until the 28th minute that the junior national team got their first real chance at goal after a long ball from a free-kick which went over the Wolves’ defence.

Three minutes to the end of the first half, Roland Silas grabbed an opportunity for the U-20 but his effort was however ruled offside by the referee.

The Flying Eagles finally went ahead in the 47th minute after a free kick into their opponents’ box found an unmarked Musa Muhammed who glanced the ball past goalkeeper Odah.

Wolves had a chance to equalise in the 61st minute, but Michael Okoyoh’s shot from the edge of the box was deflected by a Flying Eagles defender and Enaholo recovered to pick up the loose ball.

The league side almost levelled up in the 77th minute, but a free kick by Osadiaye on the edge of the U-20 box was saved by Enaholo after a second attempt.

The lone victory against Warri Wolves ensured three consecutive victories for the Flying Eagles so far in the tournament.

The tournament, which kicked off on Saturday, will end on February 1.

OTHER RESULTS

U-23 Team 1-1 Kano Pillars

Enyimba 1-0 Dolphins