Nigeria Finish China Invitational On Positive Note After Draw With Hosts
Golden Eaglets Earn Creditable Draw to End China Invitational Campaign
Nigeria recovers from early setbacks to secure first point
NIGERIA’S Golden Eaglets concluded their campaign at the 2026 China Four-Nation Invitational Tournament on a positive note after battling hosts China to a 1-1 draw, ending the competition with an improved performance following two opening defeats.
The Nigerian U-17 side entered the final fixture determined to bounce back after narrow losses to Tanzania and Australia. Their resilience paid off as they produced a disciplined display to claim their first point of the tournament.
Although the result was not enough to alter their final standing, it provided an encouraging finish as the team continues preparations for upcoming continental assignments.
Samuel opens scoring before China responds
The Golden Eaglets made an impressive start and deservedly took the lead in the 11th minute through Idor Samuel, who calmly converted after a lively attacking move.
The hosts, however, responded positively and restored parity 10 minutes later when Zhang Junhao found the back of the net, ensuring both teams went into the halftime interval level.
Nigeria created several promising opportunities after the restart, while China also searched for a winning goal, but disciplined defending and missed chances at both ends ensured the encounter finished in a draw.
Focus shifts to WAFU B Championship
The result gives the Golden Eaglets valuable international exposure ahead of the forthcoming WAFU B U-17 Championship, where they will seek to build on the lessons learned during the invitational tournament.
Meanwhile, Tanzania emerged champions of the competition after completing a perfect campaign with three victories from three matches. The Serengeti Boys sealed first place with an emphatic 5-2 victory over Australia, having earlier defeated both Nigeria and hosts China.
With the China tournament now concluded, the Golden Eaglets are expected to intensify preparations as they aim to return stronger in their quest for regional success and qualification for future international competitions.
