Golden Eaglets Face Benin as Title Chase Kicks Off at WAFU B U-17 Championship

|By Babatunji Wusu

Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets launch their campaign for glory today when they battle neighbours Benin Republic in their opening game of the 2025 WAFU B U-17 Championship at the Stade du Lycee Scientifique, Yamoussoukro.

The clash comes as the second fixture in Group B, following Burkina Faso’s slim 1-0 victory over Benin on Sunday. A win for Manu Garba’s boys would put them in pole position to advance, with their pedigree making them the team to beat in the tournament.

The Eaglets boast an illustrious history at this level, having lifted the FIFA U-17 World Cup five times and finished as runners-up on three occasions. They also hold two African titles to their name, a record that underscores their dominance on the continent.

Nigeria, who placed third at the last edition of the biennial championship, are eager to reclaim their crown and reaffirm their status as the powerhouse of youth football.