Nigeria’s U20 national team, the Flying Eagles, will kick off their campaign for an eighth Africa U20 Cup of Nations title on Thursday, when they face Tunisia’s Junior Carthage Eagles at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo, Egypt.
This opening Group B clash revives a historic rivalry between the two nations. Forty years ago, Nigeria claimed their second continental title at Tunisia’s expense, winning 2-1 on aggregate over two legs. More recently, in the 2023 U20 AFCON third-place match—also hosted by Egypt—the Flying Eagles cruised to a 4-0 victory over the North Africans.
Head Coach Aliyu Zubairu and his squad are aiming for a strong start in a highly competitive tournament, which also features title holders Senegal, four-time champions Ghana, and hosts Egypt among the contenders.
Egypt, winners in 1981, 1991, 2003, and 2013, already got off to a winning start, defeating South Africa in Group A. Meanwhile, Zambia and Sierra Leone played out a goalless draw. Group C presents a challenging path for Ghana who must contend with reigning champions Senegal, the Central African Republic (who knocked out Cameroon), and DR Congo.
Nigeria will also have one eye on Morocco, their next opponents in Group B, and Kenya, who complete the group lineup. Despite a recent 2-1 victory over Egypt in a friendly, Zubairu emphasized the importance of remaining focused.
“That result has provided a good impetus for us as we prepare to face the Tunisians—another North African opposition,” Zubairu said. “We won’t rest on our oars. It only boosts our confidence and encourages us to fight harder.”
Key players to watch include Germany-based Precious Benjamin, Kparobo Arierhi who scored three goals in the WAFU B Championship and netted in the friendly against Egypt, alongside Clinton Jephta and Divine Oliseh.
Tunisia, which was not originally qualified for the tournament, earned a place following the late withdrawal of the initial hosts, Côte d’Ivoire. Despite their underdog status, they are expected to pose a significant challenge.
The top four teams at the tournament will qualify to represent Africa at the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in Chile from September 27 to October 19.
