The Nigeria U17 team started their campaign at the WAFU B Championship with a comprehensive 4-1 thrashing of host Ghana in the opening game of the tournament.
Michael Emmanuel set the tone for the win with a sublime freekick from range to put the Nduka Ugbade led boys into the lead very early into the game. The Simoiben Academy prospect bent the ball from around 30 yards out.
Team’s top striker and top scorer during their camping in Abuja Precious William put the Nigerians two goals up by reacting first to a loose ball spilled by the goalkepper of Ghana.
Jubril Azeez benefitted from some terrible goalkepping by the shot stopper of Ghana to kill any hope of a late charge by the host although they immediately pulled one back through Abdul Razak Salifu to bring scores to 1-3.
Substitute Light Ike restored Nigeria’s lead with a smart finish from a well worked corner kick leaving Ghana with a mountain to climb with around ten minutes left to play in the game. Ghana however put some respect to the tally with another goal via the spot.
Moment of hesitation in the Nigerian box gifted Ghana a penalty which Collins Agyemang converted with ease, a little to late for Ghana as Nigeria clinched a comprehensive win.
Michael Emmanuel was subsequently voted the man of the match. Nigeria’s next game is on Tuesday against Togo.
