Nigeria U-17 national team, the Golden Eaglets on Sunday began their quest for a record third Africa Cup of Nations title in Algeria with a 1-0 victory over Zambia.
Favour Daniel’s second half strike ensured the Nigeria youngsters started their campaign on a winning note.
Both sides had played a goalless draw in the first half with chances on both ends to open the score.
Abubakar Abdullahi thought he had scored the opener after 13 minutes but he was flagged offside, while Tochukwu Ogbabido had a rasping shot from the edge of the box go inches over.
In the 39 mins, Nigeria had a glorious chance when Hope Linus sent skipper Precious Williams through on goal with a brilliant through ball, but the Zambian keeper’s trailing leg deflected the ball against the upright.
Three minutes before half time, Zambia were also denied by the woodwork, this time Emmanuel Mwanza’s curling effort coming off against the crossbar.
However in the 76 mins, Daniel who was left isolated inside the box latched on to a loose ball to drive home the long-sought-after lead for the Eaglets.
The Golden Eaglets should have added a second goal in the 89th minute from the penalty spot after Abubakar Abdullahi was brought down inside the box, but substitute Light Eke saw his tame penalty saved.
The Eaglets will face Morocco in their next group game on Wednesday at the Stade Mohamed Hamlaoui while Zambia takes on South Africa.
