Arierhi Kparobo inspired Nigeria’s Flying Eagles to complete their Under-20 WAFU B title defence as his brace secured a 2-1 win over arch rivals, Ghana in the final played at the Stade de Kegue in Lome, Togo, on Wednesday .
Nigeria makes it back-to-back titles in the junior tournament thanks to the Beyond Limits striker, who bagged two first-half goals to take the contest beyond the Black Satellites.
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Arierhi Kparobo delivered the gold in WAFU B final
Nigeria, who defeated Niger 3-1 to reach the final were keen to retain their title, and after an evenly contested first half-hour, they took the lead courtesy of a sensational finish from Kparobo in the 33rd minute.
The 17-year-old received the ball from the right flank and did well to allow it roll across him before firing a left-footed shot into the net. It was perfect timing as it made Ghana desperate and as well vulnerable.
Flying Eagles capitalized on the two weaknesses and Kparobo completed his brace three minutes before the interval. The young striker was played through on goal after Ghana had committed bodies forward, he ran the length before powering his strike into the top corner for 2-0.
Ghana grabbed a consolation midway through the second-half but Nigeria was satisfied with protection their lead, which they successfully did and retained their crown.
Both Nigeria and Ghana have secured their place in the Under-20 AFCON tournament in South Africa next year, while Ivory Coast won bronze by winning the third place match earlier on Wednesday by beating Niger 2-1.
