The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has recognized Nigerian forward Kparabo Arierhi as one of the standout players to watch at the ongoing U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt. The 18-year-old striker has been making waves with his impressive performances in youth competitions across Africa and Europe.
Arierhi’s inclusion on CAF’s list of top talents is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport. He has been instrumental in Nigeria’s success in various youth tournaments, including the WAFU B U-20 qualifiers, where he scored and assisted in the final to help the Flying Eagles secure a spot in Egypt.
Arierhi’s Impressive Form
Arierhi’s form at the club level has also been impressive, finishing as the top scorer in the 2024 TCC League with 22 goals in 15 matches for Beyond Limits Football Academy. He also scored five times in five matches during the prestigious Viareggio Cup in Italy, helping Beyond Limits become the first African team to win the tournament.
Nigeria’s Chances in the Tournament
With Arierhi’s talent and determination, Nigeria’s Flying Eagles are poised to make a strong impression at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations. The team is drawn in Group B alongside Morocco, Tunisia, and Kenya, and their aim is not only to reclaim continental supremacy but also to secure qualification for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
Arierhi’s Move to Lillestrøm
Arierhi recently joined Norwegian side Lillestrøm on a professional deal, turning down interest from clubs like Aston Villa and Olympique Lyonnais in favor of steady development. He explained that the move was a deliberate step toward regular senior football, saying, “I wanted to have the opportunity to play as a first team, which is why I chose to sign with Lillestrøm Sportsklubb, despite the interest of Aston Villa and Olympique Lyonnais. Signing my first professional contract with Lillestrøm Sportsklubb is an incredible sensation, I’m making my dream come true. My goal is to win in the first team, to score a lot of goals and to help the team win matches.”
A Bright Future Ahead
With his talent, determination, and impressive form, Arierhi is undoubtedly one of the most exciting young players in African football. As he continues to develop his skills and make a name for himself in the sport, Nigerian football fans will be eagerly watching his progress, hoping that he will play a key role in the Flying Eagles’ success at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations.¹