Nigeria and Burkina Faso are set to renew their rivalry on Friday in a crucial encounter as they battle for a place in the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) U20 qualifiers. The match, scheduled for 3 p.m. GMT in Lomé, Togo, serves as both a key qualifier and a chance for Nigeria to avenge past defeats.
Both teams are drawn in Group B of the UFOA B tournament, and with only three teams in the group, every match carries significant weight.
An early victory is vital for either side to secure their path to the next stage of the competition. For Nigeria, the stakes are even higher as they look to overcome their recent poor form against Burkina Faso.
Nigeria has struggled in their previous encounters with Burkina Faso at the U20 level. In their last three meetings, the Super Flying Eagles have failed to secure a win, drawing twice and losing once.
Their most painful defeat came in the 2019 African Games, where Burkina Faso beat them 2-0 in the final, leaving a lasting mark on the Nigerian squad.
This upcoming match offers Nigeria a chance at redemption. The Super Flying Eagles are eager to break their winless streak against Burkina Faso and assert their dominance in this crucial tournament.
Revenge is on their minds, and a victory would not only heal old wounds but also put them on course for the semi-finals of the AFCON U20 qualifiers.
On the other hand, Burkina Faso heads into the match with confidence. Their positive record against Nigeria makes them the slight favorites.
With one win and two draws in their last three encounters, the U20 Stallions have consistently proven themselves tough opponents for the Nigerians.
Friday’s match is an opportunity for Burkina Faso to maintain their edge and confirm their superiority in this long-standing rivalry.
A win for either side would all but guarantee a spot in the semi-finals, raising the stakes even further.
Burkina Faso will look to build on their strong record, while Nigeria will fight for both qualification and a much-needed victory against their familiar foes.
With so much on the line, this clash promises to be a thrilling contest between two teams determined to leave their mark on the tournament.
