2023 U-17 AFCON: Nigeria Vs Zambia

The Golden Eaglets had a great start to their AFCON campaign, and they would look to continue with that form

The Golden Eaglets of Nigeria defeated Zambia 1-0 in their opening game of the 2023 Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.

A 76th-minute strike from Favour Daniel sealed the victory for the two-time African champions.

Soccernet.ng rates the performance of the players.

Richard Odoh 7/10: Odoh had a good day on between the sticks for Nigeria. He had very little to do because the Golden Eaglets bossed the possession. However, he showed good command of his area and made some good saves in the second half.

Jeremiah Olaleke 7/10: The defender had a decent showing in defence. His speed was key, as he emerged on top on most one-on-one situations. He held his own on the night, and the clean sheet was proof of his work.

Tochukwu Ogboji 7/10: Ogboji also had a good showing. He was solid on many occasions and ensured nothing went past him.

Emmanuel Michael 7/10: Michael gave a good account of himself, staying strong and ensuring nothing went past him. He made some timely tackles in the game to keep Nigeria in touch.

Yahaya Lawali 8.4/10: He emerged the best player on the night. His defensive discipline was key to Nigeria’s success. He led from behind ensuring nothing went past him.

Tochukwu Ogbadibo 8/10: Ogbadibo had a solid display in midfield. His work rate was superb, and he made a few runs that made the Zambia defense uneasy.

Hope Linus 7.5/10: Linus also had a very good performance in the heart of the midfield. He blocked everything that came his way. He used his strength to his advantage, and displayed great passing ability.

Precious Williams 7.3/10: He was a pain in the neck of the Zambians on the afternoon. He had a few chances, but his final balls often failed him.

Abubakar Abdullahi 7.4/10: Abdullahi constituted a nuisance for the Zambian defenders. His runs were great, but he could have done better with his final balls. Still, it was a solid performance from him.

Usman Owoyemi 6.8/10: Owoyemi had some chances to score, but he often fluffed his lines. He had good positioning and showed trickery but his final ballß always fell short.

Favour Daniel 8.3/10: Daniel scored the game winner for Nigeria. He missed a few chances in the game, but he eventually came good for Ladan Bosso’s team.