A senior team official has declared that the Flying Eagles are the team to watch at this year’s U20 AFCON, especially after their impressive 2-1 victory over tournament hosts Egypt in a preparatory match. Goals from Kparobo Arierhi and Precious Benjamin secured the win, but it was the team’s overall strong performance that truly stood out. The official emphasized that this squad appears more prepared and cohesive than the 2023 team, which finished third in the same tournament. He highlighted the players’ spirit, resilience, and quick adaptation to the familiar weather conditions.

The official also noted that the team has been significantly strengthened with new additions who have enhanced the core group that previously triumphed at the WAFU B tournament in Togo. According to him, the Egyptian side was left stunned by the Flying Eagles’ energy and quality on the pitch. He believes Egypt is still reeling from the performance delivered by the Nigerian side, showing just how much progress the team has made in a short time.

Meanwhile, Coach Aliyu Zubairu expressed his satisfaction with the team’s high-intensity display, praising the players for not giving their Egyptian opponents any breathing space. The Flying Eagles now look ahead to their opening Group B match against Tunisia on Thursday, May 1, before facing Morocco and Kenya in subsequent fixtures.