Coach Zubairu Confident as Flying Eagles Prepare for U20 AFCON ‘Group of Death’

Nigeria was put in a difficult group at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), but Flying Eagles head coach Aliyu Zubairu is not giving up. Nigeria will compete against Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa in Group B of the competition, which is set to take place in Ivory Coast from April 26 to May 18.

Zubairu believes the tough draw is an opportunity rather than a setback. “If we truly want to reach the FIFA U-20 World Cup, we must be ready to face any team. This is a great chance to prove ourselves,” he said.

He dismissed concerns about being in a ‘Group of Death,’ emphasizing that African football has become more competitive. “There are no small teams anymore. The key is proper preparation.”

The Flying Eagles have already begun a training camp with a 30-man squad. They will also play two friendly matches against Egypt’s U-20 team in Cairo on February 25 and 27 to prepare for the tournament.

The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, will qualify for the quarterfinals. The semifinalists will secure a spot at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.