Nigeria’s U20 team, the Flying Eagles, secured a confidence-boosting 2–1 win over Egypt’s Young Pharaohs on Tuesday in a friendly match ahead of the 17th Africa U20 Cup of Nations. The game took place at the Cairo International Stadium.
Forward Kparobo Arierhi gave Nigeria an early lead in the 10th minute, converting a fine pass from Bidemi Amole. Arierhi, who played a key role in Nigeria’s successful defense of the WAFU B U20 Championship title in October, continued his impressive form.
The hosts responded in the 65th minute with a goal from Ahmed Kaabaka, leveling the score. However, the Flying Eagles remained composed and regained the lead late in the game when Precious Benjamin confidently converted a penalty in the 83rd minute, after Divine Oliseh was fouled in the box.
The win comes just 48 hours after the Nigerian squad arrived in Cairo and provides a timely morale boost as they gear up for their AFCON opener against Tunisia on Thursday, May 1. They will also face Morocco and Kenya in Group B.
Meanwhile, Egypt, who are in Group A, begins their campaign against South Africa this Sunday, followed by fixtures against Sierra Leone on April 30, Zambia on May 3, and Tanzania on May 9.
The Africa U20 Cup of Nations, scheduled to run from April 27 to May 18, will also serve as the qualifying tournament for the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile. The top four teams from the competition will earn tickets to the global showpiece.
