Nigeria’s Flying Eagles were held to a 0-0 draw by Morocco in a closely contested U-20 Africa Cup of Nations showdown, Soccernet.ng reports.
This leaves both teams tied at the top of the group with four points each following their second group games.
The match, saw early drama in the 15th minute when Morocco thought they were about to take the lead. However, the attempt was correctly ruled out for offside, and Nigerian goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt ensured there was no danger by making a solid block.
Two minutes later, the Flying Eagles had a promising opportunity of their own after Hamza Koutoune brought down Precious Benjamin just outside the box. Nigeria were awarded a free kick in a dangerous area, but the set-piece effort was ultimately wasted.
Get Our Sports News First – Join Our WhatsApp Channel Now!
The Nigerians created problems for themselves at the back in the 21st minute, with Morocco attempting a long-range strike following a defensive lapse. Emmanuel Chukwu was alert to the danger and produced a crucial block to keep the score level.
Despite both sides pushing for a breakthrough, neither was able to find the back of the net before half-time. In the 43rd minute, Nigeria came close when Precious Benjamin forced a fine save from Moroccan goalkeeper Yanis Benchaouch with a shot from inside the area.
The second half offered fewer clear chances, with both teams tightening up defensively. Nigeria registered three shots on target by the 73rd minute but couldn’t capitalise.
Ayuma tried his luck from distance in the 90th minute following a headed clearance by the Moroccan defence, but his effort sailed over the bar.
The goalless result means Nigeria and Morocco remain joint leaders of their group with four points each after two matches.
FULL-TIME!
No breakthrough. Morocco and Nigeria end goalless. #TotalEnergiesAFCONU20 | #MARNGA pic.twitter.com/u0EukkXun2
— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) May 4, 2025
Both teams will look to seal qualification in their final group games, with Nigeria taking on Kenya in the coming days.