Nigeria’s Flying Eagles Begin Quest for 8th U20 AFCON Title Against Tunisia
Historic Rivalry Renewed in Cairo Opener
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles launch their campaign for an eighth U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title on Thursday, facing Tunisia’s Junior Carthage Eagles at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo. This Group B opener revives a historic rivalry dating back 40 years when Nigeria defeated Tunisia to claim their second continental crown.
Memorable Past Encounters
The fixture brings back memories of Nigeria’s 1983 victory, secured with a 1-1 draw in Tunis followed by a 2-1 win in Lagos. More recently, Nigeria dominated Tunisia 4-0 in the 2023 U20 AFCON third-place match, also hosted by Egypt.
Tough Competition Ahead
Head Coach Aliyu Zubairu has emphasized taking each game seriously, with formidable opponents including defending champions Senegal, hosts Egypt, and four-time winners Ghana vying for the title.
Group A has already seen action, with Egypt defeating South Africa while Zambia and Sierra Leone played to a goalless draw. Group C features defending champions Senegal against Ghana, Central African Republic, and DR Congo.
Nigeria’s Tournament History
While Nigeria enters as favorites, caution is advised. Their only final losses since the tournament format changed came against host nations: Ghana in 1999 and Congo in 2007. However, they triumphed over Senegal on home soil in 2015.
Upcoming Matches
After facing Tunisia, Nigeria will meet 1997 champions Morocco at the same venue. Coach Zubairu remains optimistic following Nigeria’s 2-1 friendly victory over Egypt just days after arriving in Cairo.
“That result gives us a psychological lift ahead of the Tunisia game,” Zubairu said. “It’s a confidence booster, but we’re not getting carried away. Our aim is maximum points, and we’ll build from there.”
Key Players to Watch
The squad features several standout performers:
- Kparobo Arierhi: Scored against Egypt and netted three goals during WAFU B qualifiers
- Precious Benjamin: Germany-based talent
- Clinton Jephta and Divine Oliseh: Promising home-based duo
Tunisia’s Unexpected Qualification
Tunisia only secured their tournament spot after original hosts Côte d’Ivoire withdrew, granting them a late reprieve.
World Cup Qualification at Stake
The top four teams will earn Africa’s spots at the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile (September 27 – October 19, 2025).
Full Flying Eagles Squad
Goalkeepers: Ifeanyi Ebenezer Harcourt (Sporting Lagos); Rufai Abubakar (Mavlon FC); Soliu Ajia Yakub (FK Novi Pazar, Serbia)
Defenders: Adamu Maigari (El-Kanemi Warriors); Odinaka Okoro (Sporting Lagos); Daniel Bameyi (Bayelsa United); Emmanuel Chukwu (TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, Germany); Chigozie Michael Ihejiofor (Katsina United)
Midfielders: Caleb Ochedikwu (NK Uljanik Pula, Croatia); Israel Isaac Ayuma (NK Istra, Croatia); Simon Cletus (Mavlon FC); Sulaiman Alabi Jojo (El-Kanemi Warriors); Auwal Ibrahim (Akwa United); Shafiu Adamu Duguri (Wikki Tourists)
Forwards: Precious Benjamin (TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, Germany); Ezekiel Anthony Kpangu (Inspire FC); Divine Oliseh (Forster Academy); Clinton Jephta (Enyimba FC); Bidemi Amole (Real Sapphire FC); Tahir Maigana (Wireless FC); Theophilus Mendos Rickson (Niger Tornadoes); Kparobo Nathaniel Arierhi (Lillestrom SK, Norway); Matthew Kingsley (Kings FC); Yushau Armiyau (Katsina United)