Head coach Aliyu Zubairu of the Flying Eagles has been upbeat about his team’s chances of succeeding in the difficult group at the 2025 Africa Under-20 Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
Powerhouses from North Africa, including Morocco, Egypt, and South Africa, will face the Flying Eagles.
The competition, which is set for April 26–May 18, is expected to be a major test for the Nigerian young team. Nonetheless, Zubairu thinks that this difficult draw might present a worthwhile chance for improvement.
“It’s an encouraging attraction. Accepting every difficulty is essential for a squad hoping to make it to the FIFA World Cup. We have a great opportunity to compete against South Africa, Egypt, and Morocco at this point. “I consider it a boon,” Zubairu said.
In response to worries about being in a purported “group of death,” the coach emphasized how African football is changing.
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“We should stop referring to this as a “group of death.” African football no longer has small teams. “The emphasis should be on preparation, because even lesser-known countries can achieve amazing things if they are prepared,” he said.
The Nigeria Football Federation has organized a training camp with a 30-man group in preparation for the continental championship.
In addition, two friendly games against the Egyptian Under-20 squad are planned for February 25 and 27 in Cairo. Zubairu will have an excellent opportunity to assess his team against a group competitor during these warm-up games.
