Flying Eagles goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt has spoken with calm resolve after helping Nigeria secure a dramatic quarterfinal victory over Senegal to book a spot in the semifinals of the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 — and with it, a return to the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
Harcourt played a crucial role in the 3-1 penalty shootout win after the game ended 0-0 in regulation and extra time. While his moment in the spotlight came during the tense shootout, the young shot-stopper says the mission is far from over.
“We are not celebrating yet,” Harcourt said after the match. “Getting the World Cup ticket was our most important goal, and we’re grateful to have achieved that. But our full focus is now on finishing the job — we want to be African champions.”
The calm and composed Harcourt made a vital save during the penalties that swung momentum in Nigeria’s favor, as Senegal — the defending champions — buckled under pressure.
Despite his heroics, Harcourt praised the entire team’s effort: “It’s not about one player. Everyone gave their all — from the starters to the bench, to the coaches and staff. This success belongs to the whole team and to Nigeria.”
The Flying Eagles have now advanced to the semifinal stage of the tournament and remain unbeaten. With the World Cup ticket secured, they are shifting their sights to adding an eighth continental title to Nigeria’s rich football legacy.
“We’ve worked too hard to stop here,” Harcourt concluded. “Now, it’s all about keeping focus and fighting for that trophy.”
