Flying Eagles’ head coach, Aliyu Zubairu, has expressed confidence in his team’s focus and determination toward securing a spot at this year’s FIFA U20 World Cup finals when they take on their Senegalese counterparts in the quarterfinal match of the ongoing CAF U-20 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) later today in Egypt.
Having remained unbeaten in their Group B campaign, the Flying Eagles finished second, trailing behind Morocco’s Lion Cubs. This has led them to Ismailia, where they will confront the reigning champions, Senegal, who also secured second place in Group C, which included notable teams such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, and the Central African Republic.
The tournament, which began with 19 teams, has now narrowed down to eight contenders, with Tanzania and Zambia exiting from Group A, and Tunisia and Kenya eliminated from Group B. The Central African Republic was also stopped in Group C.
Dr Mohammed Sanusi, general-ecretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), urged the seven-time champions to elevate their game against the cup holders.
“I have no doubt that you have the ability to rise to the occasion,” he stated. “You are not only playing against the defending champions, but you must also win to qualify for the FIFA World Cup. The primary objective in any qualifying tournament is to secure a place, followed by the goal of winning the trophy.”
Sanusi assured the team of the NFF and the Nigerian football community’s unwavering support, expecting them to repay this encouragement with a World Cup ticket on Monday.
Two years ago, Senegal narrowly defeated the Flying Eagles 1-0 in their opening match of the CAF U20 Championship, which ultimately led to the Lion Cubs’ first title victory after they overcame Gambia 2-0 in the final. Nigeria, meanwhile, finished third in that tournament.
With only semi-finalists qualifying for the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile later this year, Nigeria knows that they must deliver a strong performance. The Flying Eagles came close to reaching the semi-finals during the last FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina two years ago.
Historically, Nigeria has found success in Senegal, having triumphed over the host nation 3-1 in the opening match of the CAF U20 Championship a decade ago, followed by a 1-0 win in the final, securing their seventh continental title. In December of that same year, Nigeria’s U23 team also clinched the Africa U23 Cup of Nations in Senegal, earning their place at the Rio 2016 Olympics.
Senegal will be keen to remember their 2-1 victory over Nigeria in the Round of 16 at the FIFA U20 World Cup finals in Poland six years ago, adding an extra layer of rivalry to today’s match.
As the teams prepare to clash at the Suez Canal Stadium, Nigeria must showcase strength, skill, and ingenuity against a Senegalese side known for their ability to turn matches in their favour unexpectedly.
Coach Zubairu remarked on the significance of the match, stating, “It is a big contest for both teams because the winner will secure a place at the World Cup. It’s like a final, and with the rivalry between our nations, we must remain disciplined and determined throughout the game.”
While Nigeria’s defence has shown resilience, there will be heightened expectations on striker Kparobo Arierhi, who has so far netted only once in the tournament despite being hailed as a key player following a strong performance at the WAFU B U20 Championship.
Captain Bameyi, who scored his first competitive goal against the Rising Stars, will be pivotal in maintaining a solid defensive line alongside teammates Odinaka Okoro, Chigozie Ihejiofor, and Adamu Maigari, protecting goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt.