Niger crowned WAFU B U17 champions following their victory over Côte d’Ivoire

Despite taking the lead twice, the young Ivorians were pegged back on both occasions before losing on penalties (1–3), following a 2–2 draw.

Côte d’Ivoire were defeated in the final of the 2026 WAFU-B U17 tournament by Niger on Friday 23 October at the 4-Août Stadium in Ouagadougou. The Ivorians had, however, made a good start to the final by taking the lead in the first half.

After the break, the young Nigeriens managed to equalise, bringing the match back to life. Côte d’Ivoire then regained the lead, but were unable to hold on to their advantage until the final whistle.

Just as the Ivorians were on the verge of victory, Niger snatched an equaliser in the 88th minute, bringing the score to 2–2. The two teams then had to be separated by a penalty shoot-out.

In the shoot-out, the young Nigeriens proved more clinical, converting three penalties to Côte d’Ivoire’s one. Niger thus won the 2026 WAFU-B U17 tournament, whilst the Ivorians finished in second place.

Despite this defeat in the final, both teams have secured their places at the next U17 Africa Cup of Nations.