Nigeria U20 head coach Aliyu Zubairu is confident as he faces the formidable opponents drawn alongside the Flying Eagles in the group stage of the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations. He embraces the challenge and believes in his team’s ability to excel.
The AFCON U20 draw, held on Thursday, confidently positioned Nigeria, the record seven-time champions, in Group B alongside three strong contenders: Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa.
Egypt is a powerhouse in the U20 AFCON, having claimed the championship title four times. With a storied history in the competition, they also finished as runners-up in 2005 and secured bronze three times, showcasing their consistent excellence on the continental stage.
Morocco, the champions of the 1997 tournament held on their own turf, triumphantly defeated South Africa 1-0 in the final. While South Africa has only made it to the final once, they showcased their strength by clinching a bronze medal in 2019 after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Nigeria.
Despite the formidable competition, Zubairu firmly believes in Nigeria’s potential for success in this tournament.
“It’s a very good draw,” Zubairu told the NFF.
“If a team truly aspires to reach the FIFA World Cup, there is no need to shy away from any opponent. Facing Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa at this stage presents a tremendous opportunity. I believe it’s a blessing.”
The 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scheduled to begin in April, will consist of three groups.
Nigeria’s Group B stands out with three former champions, while Group A showcases the hosts Côte d’Ivoire, alongside DR Congo, Ghana, Tanzania, and a team from the UNIFFAC zone yet to qualify.
Group C boasts the defending champions Senegal, along with Zambia, Sierra Leone, and Kenya.
While many consider Nigeria’s group to be the toughest and have dubbed it the “group of death,” Zubairu confidently dismissed this label.
“We need to dispel the notion that this is a ‘group of death,’” he said.
“In African football, there are no small teams anymore. The key is to prepare very well. A lesser-known nation can surprise everyone if they come prepared.”
Zubairu’s confidence is fueled by an outstanding year in 2024.
The seasoned tactician expertly led El-Kanemi Warriors to a remarkable promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and secured their first Federation Cup victory in 32 years, triumphing over Abia Warriors with a commanding 2–0 win in the final.
His remarkable achievements secured him the head coach position for the Flying Eagles, a role he adeptly balances with his club responsibilities.
Under his leadership, Nigeria’s U20 team triumphantly clinched the WAFU B Tournament, defeating arch-rivals Ghana 2-1 in a thrilling final. Now, Zubairu is fully focused on achieving the pinnacle of his career—the U20 AFCON title in Côte d’Ivoire, taking place from April 26 to May 18.