AYC: Flying Eagles Off To Winning Start In S’Africa

Nigeria got their 2011 African Youth Championships off to a winning start with a 2-1 victory against defending champions Ghana at Dobsonville Stadium on Monday.

Nigeria created little in terms of goalscoring opportunities, but were more efficient in front of goal, picking up the three points that sets them up perfectly for a place in the semifinal now.

Nigeria’s hero was Uche Nwafor, who scored both goals in each half for the Flying Eagles.

Their first arrived on 17 minutes when Uche latched onto a cross from the right. Sandwiched between those goals was a headed equaliser for Ghana courtesy of Francis Nsor.

He was first to a corner-kick by Richmond Nketia as Ghana drew level. Ghana then went on to waste a host of chances with Nsor the most guilty, especially when he skewed an effort wide from inside the six yard box.

Nigeria goalkeeper Paul Danjuma then saved well from Richmond Boakye Yiadom as Ghana piled up the pressure in search of the winning goal.

It did not come and they were made to pay in a second half in which Nigeria were the more threatening side especially on the break.

Nwofor broke down the left side of Ghana’s defense, striking a shot-cum-cross that completely caught the Ghana goalkeeper Akwasi Achampong off guard.