Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets began their campaign at the WAFU B U-17 Championship with a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Niger Republic on Wednesday night.
Niger took the lead in the 19th minute through Abdoul Razaq Zada, who capitalised on a goalkeeping error by Mutiu Adedayo.
Zada calmly slotted the ball home after Adedayo failed to deal with a cross inside his penalty area.
The Nigeriens sealed their victory four minutes from full time when Abdoul Rakilou doubled their advantage.
Mubarak Fasiu scored a late consolation for Nigeria deep into stoppage time, but his effort was not enough to prevent the Golden Eaglets from suffering defeat in their opening fixture.
The result leaves Eboboritse Uwejamomere’s side at the bottom of Group A without a point.
Niger, meanwhile, have secured their place in the semi-finals after accumulating four points from two matches.
Nigeria must now turn their attention to their last group fixture, where they will battle Cote d’Ivoire for the second qualification spot in the knockout stage.
Cote d’Ivoire currently have one point following their 1-1 draw with Niger, setting up a crucial contest for the remaining semi-final berth.
