History Made! 2009-born Ebenezer Harcourt becomes youngest Super Eagles player with clean sheet

Ebenezer Harcourt, the 15-year-old wonderkid born in 2009, made history as the youngest-ever player to don the Nigeria Super Eagles jersey.

Straight from Sporting Lagos FC Academy, Harcourt announced himself in spectacular fashion by keeping a clean sheet during Nigeria’s final group stage match against Congo at CHAN 2024.

The Super Eagles entered the match with their campaign already over following disappointing defeats to Senegal and Sudan, having failed to find the back of the net in their first two games.

With nothing more to play for but pride, coach Eric Chelle who feels sorry for their poor outing made several changes to the lineup, handing a dream debut to the teenage prodigy alongside others in a bid to finish the tournament on a positive note.

In a defense bolstered by Harcourt and Stephen Manyo partnering Junior Nduka centrally, the team showed newfound resilience.

Up front, NPFL top scorer Anas Yusuf led the attack, helping Nigeria secure a 2-0 victory over Congo.

Harcourt’s composed and commanding performance in goal was a highlight, preserving the clean sheet and giving fans a glimpse of a bright future for Nigerian football.

Sporting Lagos FC, proud of their rising star’s rapid rise, took to social media to celebrate his milestone.

“Our own Ebenezer Harcourt- straight from @SLFCAcademy to a Super Eagles debut at #CHAN2024. The journey continues!” the club posted, sharing their excitement at his breakthrough.

Despite Nigeria’s earlier setbacks and eventual elimination, Harcourt’s historic debut and strong showing offer a silver lining.

The teenager will also share in the Super Eagles’ upcoming CAF windfall from the tournament, marking the beginning of what promises to be an exciting international career.