Flying Eagles head coach, Aliyu Zubairu has promised Nigerians a top-notch performance from his team in their U20 AFCON qualifying semifinal against Niger on Saturday.
Reflecting on their journey, Zubairu highlighted the team’s growth, especially in their crucial 2-1 comeback victory over Côte d’Ivoire on Thursday evening that “The boys were jittery in the first game, which is common in openers, but today you could see a much-improved team,” he remarked after the match.
The Flying Eagles had a challenging start to the tournament, falling 1-0 to Burkina Faso in their opener. However, they bounced back in their second game, overcoming Côte d’Ivoire to secure a spot in the knockout stages.
“In the semifinal, you will see a better Nigerian team,” Zubairu assured fans. “We cannot compromise because we have to qualify for the U20 AFCON.”
The victory over Côte d’Ivoire saw Nigeria finish as Group B leaders, narrowly advancing over Burkina Faso by goal count, as both teams were tied on points and goals. After a goalless first half, the Junior Elephants took the lead in the second half, but Enyimba winger Clinton Jephta equalized for Nigeria. Striker Kparobo Arierhi, who played after passing a last-minute fitness test, scored the decisive goal shortly after.
Goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt, chosen over Nathaniel Nwosu, was instrumental in the win, making key saves, including one in the final moments to secure Nigeria’s lead.
As Group B winners, the Flying Eagles will now face Niger, the Group A runners-up, in the semifinal. Both teams that reach the final will earn a place in the U20 AFCON, scheduled for January in South Africa.
