Nigeria went into the final hoping to avenge their earlier group-stage defeat to Burkina Faso, but the Young Stallions produced another dominant performance when it mattered most.
Burkina Faso came flying out of the blocks and punished Nigeria’s slow start, scoring three goals within the opening 15 minutes to put the Flying Eagles on the back foot.
The early setback left Nigeria with a huge mountain to climb, as the Young Stallions took firm control of the contest and went into the break with a commanding advantage.
Despite efforts from the Flying Eagles to fight their way back into the game, Burkina Faso remained in control and eventually completed a convincing 4-1 victory.
The defeat means Nigeria will have to settle for the silver medal, while Burkina Faso claim the WAFU B U-20 title.
More importantly, the result hands Burkina Faso the zone’s qualification ticket for the 2027 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, with Ghana already guaranteed a place as hosts.
For the Flying Eagles, it is a disappointing end to a campaign that promised much, especially after reaching the final. Nigeria had the opportunity to overturn their group-stage defeat to Burkina Faso but were once again beaten by the Young Stallions.
