Flying Eagles aim to soar past South Africa in U-20 AFCON semifinal

Nigeria's U-20 National Team: Photo credit: NFF

Nigeria's U-20 National Team head coach, Aliyu Zubairu, has assured that his side has been sharpening their goal-scoring abilities ahead of their highly anticipated semi-final clash against South Africa on Thursday, May 25, 2025, at the 2025 CAF U-20 Africa Cup (AFCON) in Egypt.

The crucial encounter is set to take place today (Thursday) at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium in Egypt, kicking off at 4:00 PM WAT.

The Flying Eagles, alongside the Amajita of South Africa, Morocco, and Egypt, have already secured a spot at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile by advancing to the final four of the continental tournament.

Speaking ahead of the semi-final clash, coach Zubairu acknowledged that the team had studied their opponents thoroughly ahead of Thursday’s encounter in Egypt.

“I was at the stadium and watched South Africa against DR Congo. We now have a good understanding of how they play. They’re a strong side, but we believe we can neutralise their strengths and exploit their weaknesses.”

Zubairu also stated the team's recent struggles in front of goal but expressed confidence in the strides made during training, confirming that all players are available for selection and ready to face the South Africans.

Meanwhile, Flying Eagles captain, Daniel Bameyi, confidently asserted to the fact that the goal for the team is to bring the trophy back home to Nigeria.

"One of the main reasons why we are here is to get a ticket to the World Cup, and we have gotten the ticket. We are fighting for the trophy to take it back to Nigeria, and Nigeria should expect nothing less than victory. We mean business, the fact that we have gotten the ticket doesn't mean all is done."

Also adding his voice to his skipper's comments, goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt, said their training would be on display during the semi-final game with South Africa.

"Our best is from the training, then you take it to the field. We are 90% ready, and when the game starts, we will be 100%. My defence is an A for me."

Nigeria, seven-time champions of the U-20 AFCON, will be aiming to reach another final as they continue their quest for continental glory.