Player Ratings: Flying Eagles 2-2 Kenya – Bameyi leads by example as Cletus, Ariehri shine

The Flying Eagles settled for a 2-2 draw against Kenya in their final Group B game of the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations tournament, Soccernet.ng reports. 

This has kept Aliyu Zubairu’s boys in the competition with five points, which has progressed them to the next round of the competition.

Despite falling behind early, the Nigerian youngsters showed resilience to claw back through goals from Kparobo Ariehri and Daniel Bameyi.

Here’s how the Flying Eagles rated in the encounter:

Ebenezer Ifeanyi Harcourt (7/10)

Made a crucial block in the 20th minute to prevent Kenya from extending their lead. Looked calm under pressure and commanded his area well overall.

Adamu Bajibir Maigari (6/10)

Had a quiet game overall. Did the basics right but didn’t influence much going forward.

Odinaka Emmanuel Okoro (7/10)

Made a vital defensive intervention in the 26th minute to keep the scores level. Stayed composed under pressure.

Daniel Kolocho Bameyi (8.5/10)

Captain fantastic. Led by example, remained solid at the back, and stepped up to convert a pressure penalty in the 73rd minute. A true leader’s performance.

Clinton Degol Jephta (7.5/10)

Showed good attacking intent from the wings, delivered some dangerous crosses early on and had a powerful shot that narrowly missed. A lively presence.

Kparobo Nathaniel Ariehri (8/10)

Opened the scoring for Nigeria with a brilliant finish in the 13th minute. Sharp, alert, and clinical in front of goal.

Equalizing in style! #TotalEnergiesAFCONU20 pic.twitter.com/Xa4bCo27JR

— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) May 7, 2025

Israel Isaac Ayuma (6/10)

Put in a workmanlike shift in midfield but didn’t particularly stand out in a scrappy midfield battle.

Simon Karshe Cletus (7/10)

Created Nigeria’s equaliser with a well-weighted assist. Showed good awareness and delivery from midfield.

Auwal Ibrahim (6.5/10)

Tried to make things happen but couldn’t replicate his earlier performances. Still linked play effectively.

Ezekiel Anthony Kpangu (6/10)

Found it difficult to impose himself but worked hard off the ball.

Emmanuel Chukwu (5/10)

His early error led to Kenya’s first goal via a penalty. Struggled to recover fully but contributed with some decent passes.